Qantas is currently preparing to take delivery of the first of its A321XLR aircraft from next year. They have just revealed the first photos of how the Business and Economy cabins will look in the new aircraft. The initial looks suggest that it will be quite similar to the current setup of the 737 fleet.
Having said that, there are tweaks and touchups around the aircraft to give it a more modern look and feel. Some of the changes will see the seats being a little wider. Well, why not, the A320 is a slightly wider aircraft than the 737. In addition, there will new new bigger overhead bins.
While Qantas has made comments on the longer range of the A321XLR over the current fleet, it has not revealed exactly where they will end up on the network. While they are replacing the current 737s, we could see them on international missions, especially into South East Asia.
Qantas A321XLR business class
Starting at the front of the aircraft, Qantas will be 20 business class seats. As with the current 737 aircraft, these will be arranged in a 2-2 layout. There will, however, be two additional rows, bringing the total number of business class rows to 5.
Qantas lists the following features of the seats
- 37” seat pitch | 5” seat recline
- Wireless charging pad
- 6-way adjustable headrest, calf rest and footrest
- Dual USB A & C charging ports
- In arm tray table with a built-in tablet holder
- Extendable cocktail table
- Leather covers
Qantas A321XLR economy class
Behind the business class cabin will be the economy class seats that will be found in the same 3-3 layout as the current 737.
- 30” seat pitch, same as 737
- 17.6” seat width, wider than the 737
- Extra comfort seat cushioning
- Leather 6-way adjustable headrest
- Dual USB A & C charging ports
- Drop-down tablet holder for personal devices accessing fast, free Wi-Fi and inflight entertainment
- Adjustable meal table
Qantas says there will be 177 seats in Economy, although the first three will have 180 seats. Not sure what is happening with those other three seats. There is some suggestion that they will remove three seats to make room for an additional lavatory.
General Cabin Features
Entertainment
One notable feature missing from the aircraft are the seatback personal TV screens. There aren’t any on the A321XLR. In order to access entertainment, Qantas will be providing fast and free WIFI that will allow you to stream content from the ground. However, you will need to provide your own device in order to take advantage of the content on offer. Of course, you can also bring your own selection of content on your own device.
Overhead Bins
Qantas will be installing larger overhead bins in the A320XLR which will allow more carryon luggage to be stored. The new bins will enable 60% more baggage to be carried onboard compared to the current 737.