Airbus's new A321XLR was showcased at AviaDev Africa 2024 and it could prove to be a solution for African aviation due to its long-haul capabilities and fuel efficiency, reports simpleflying.com.
According to Airbus's Global Market Forecast, Origin & Destination passenger traffic in Africa will grow by 4,1% over the next 20 years, and intra-Africa traffic by 4,8%.
Additionally, it found that about 23% of the operational passenger aircraft on the continent are Airbus A220s, the A330neo, Embraer E2, Boeing 737 MAX, and Boeing 787.
“The XLR will allow airlines to operate long-haul routes of up to eight and a half or nine hours with a smaller module. This could work for an airline that does not have or would not want to operate widebodies but still wants to offer a long-haul service," Airbus Airline Marketing Director, Joep Ellers explained during a presentation at AviaDev.
Ellers also emphasised the benefits of flying this latest generation aircraft, including its modern fuel standards and affordability factor for operations during slower seasons.
Airbus says its latest generation aircraft offer 20-40% fuel burn reductions, allowing airlines to reduce costs and emissions.
