Aviation

Airbus A321XLR Secures EASA Approval, Ready for Commercial Debut

In a significant milestone for Airbus, the A321XLR powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines has received its Type Certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The Type Certificate was officially handed over by Florian Guillermet, Executive Director of EASA, to Isabelle Bloy, A321XLR Chief Engineer. This certification paves the way for the entry-into-service of the new aircraft, anticipated at the end of the summer.

The certification of the A321XLR variant equipped with Pratt & Whitney engines is expected later in 2024. Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business of Airbus, expressed his excitement about the new aircraft, stating, “Here comes the A321XLR, a differentiated product that brings new value to the market, expanding the possibilities for our airline customers and passengers.

American airlines Insight view of A321XLR:Click here

With its long range, the A321XLR enables a host of new direct routes, offering natural growth opportunities to our customers and the travelling public. It provides airlines with the efficiency of commonality inside the A320/A321 product range and its versatile cabin a range of service possibilities that are just unique. It is quintessential Airbus!”

The certification represents a key milestone in the journey of the A321XLR. The next phase involves preparing the aircraft for its first commercial missions with customers worldwide. Scherer added, “We look forward to working with XLR customers to support the integration of the aircraft in their fleets.”

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The A321XLR, with its impressive capabilities, complements widebody aircraft in an airline’s fleet. It offers the flexibility to add capacity, open new routes, or maintain existing ones when demand fluctuates.

This aircraft stands out by burning 30% less fuel per seat compared to previous generation competitor aircraft, and at approximately half the trip cost of modern widebodies. Its new Airspace cabin promises passengers long-haul comfort across all classes.

The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022, followed by an extensive test program involving three test aircraft. To date, more than 500 Airbus A321XLRs have been ordered, highlighting the strong demand and confidence in this innovative aircraft.

With its certification now secured, the A321XLR is poised to make a significant impact on the aviation market, offering airlines a versatile, efficient, and cost-effective solution for a variety of routes and operational needs.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.