Airbus to test-fly A321XLR on June 15  

Airbus is aiming to conduct the first flight of its long-range A321XLR from its Hamburg Finkenwerder plant on 15 June.

The aircraft, which has been undergoing pre-flight simulation and ground checks, was rolled out in its test-flight livery last month.

Airbus has scheduled a first flight event for 15 June, although the maiden sortie will only take place if the weather is suitable.

It says the A321XLR is the “next evolutionary step” for the single-aisle family, designed to offer a range of 4,700nm and a capacity for up to 244 passengers.

“[The aircraft] brings new route opportunities, targeting environmental challenges with less fuel consumption,” it adds.

Entry into service for the A321XLR had been planned for next year but certification requirements have pushed back the type’s operational debut to 2024.

Culled from FlightGlobal