The private Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq took a strategic step in its modernization process by receiving its first Airbus A321XLR, the first of four units to join its fleet through a long-term lease agreement with Air Lease. This delivery positions the company as the inaugural operator of this model in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), a significant milestone for the development of air connectivity in the region.
A New Chapter for the Qanot Sharq Fleet
With this addition, the airline reinforces its ambition to upgrade its aircraft and expand its international network. The A321XLR will enable the airline to operate new routes to key Asian markets, such as Sanya and Busan, in addition to establishing a connection to New York City via Budapest. This capability significantly extends the company’s reach, strengthening links between Asia-Pacific and Europe.
Configuration and Onboard Experience
The aircraft is equipped with CFM LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class configuration with 190 seats. The cabin includes 16 Business Class seats with full recline and 174 Economy Class spaces, offering a balanced proposition between comfort and capacity.
→ Iberia to Fly Between Madrid and Toronto Starting in June with Airbus A321XLR
The design incorporates the Airbus Airspace cabin, which enhances the experience for both passengers and crew. Among its notable features are the XL overhead bins, offering 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generations. Furthermore, all travelers have in-seat connectivity, while the state-of-the-art lighting system contributes to a more pleasant in-flight environment.
A321XLR: Range, Efficiency, and Sustainability
The A321XLR represents the latest evolution of the A320neo family, developed to meet market demand for greater range and payload. This model offers a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, which is 15% more than the A321LR.
In terms of efficiency, the aircraft achieves up to 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation competing aircraft. This is complemented by reduced NOx emissions and noise levels, key factors in a context of increasing focus on environmental sustainability. To date, Airbus has secured over 500 orders for this type.
A Strategic Step for Regional Connectivity
The arrival of the first A321XLR at Qanot Sharq not only strengthens the airline’s position in Uzbekistan but also introduces to Central Asia a platform capable of covering long-range routes with a single aisle. This combination of efficiency, range, and comfort opens new possibilities for the development of international services and consolidates the company’s role on the global air travel map.
Related Topics
Boeing Requests Emissions Exemption from FAA to Sell 35 777F Jets
FAA to Evaluate New Cockpit Alert System for Boeing 737 MAX 10: A Key Step Toward Certification
Southwest Airlines Expects Boeing 737 MAX 7 Certification by August 2026
Airbus Admits Boeing Likely to Win Order Race This Year
Plataforma Informativa de Aviación Comercial con 13 años de trayectoria.