Qantas has launched its newest narrowbody aircraft, the Airbus A321XLR, on Australia’s second busiest route between Sydney and Brisbane, marking a significant upgrade in cabin comfort, efficiency, and sustainability.
Following its debut earlier this year on Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth flights, Queenslanders are now the latest to experience the roomier cabin featuring higher ceilings, wider seats, larger windows, and enhanced overhead storage with about 60% more space compared to the older Boeing 737s being replaced.
The Airbus A321XLR also offers free Wi-Fi, a quieter ride, and reduced fuel consumption per seat, contributing to Qantas’ progress toward its sustainability goals. The aircraft seats 197 passengers, including an increased Business Class section with 20 lie-flat seats planned on later aircraft for longer and international routes. This model can fly up to 8,700 km, enabling new direct domestic and regional international connections.
Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson highlighted the aircraft’s significance for Queensland, home to Qantas’ origins and an important part of its network. Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff praised the quieter operation as beneficial for surrounding communities and noted how the arrival aligns with Brisbane Airport’s ongoing terminal enhancements, including upgraded screening, expanded retail, and improved passenger facilities.
Currently, Qantas operates two A321XLRs with a third aircraft named Seven Peaks Walk expected imminently, and a total of 48 on order as part of the airline’s largest-ever fleet renewal program. This fresh generation of aircraft promises to deliver a superior travel experience for passengers while supporting environmental commitments.
For travellers flying the Sydney-Brisbane corridor, spotting the new A321XLR at the gate means enjoying a quieter, more spacious, and tech-forward journey — a preview of Australia’s modern domestic air travel future.
