FAA and EASA certified at the same time last modifications done over the long-range version of A321neo; additional tanks, new fuel systems, structural reinforcement and windows position.
The long range variant of the A321neo can carry up to 206 passengers, has three additional fuel tanks that make him flight further than standards A321neo of 3 700 km up to 7 400 km.
The A321LR is now ready for business. Last modifications made by the European OEM have jointly been appove by EASA and FAA that also gave to the aircraft the ETOPS 180min certification. That's a certification that evaluates the capacity for the aircrfat to fly during 180min and maintain safety onboarduntil an airport with only one engine working. This certification open doors of TransAtlantique flight for A321LR.
It also marks the approval of the A321neo’s Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) option, which incorporates a modified fuselage structure with new door arrangements and a higher maximum takeoff weight capability of up to 97 metric tons. Only A321neos with the new ACF structure can offer the 97-metric-ton mtow and the ability to accept three new center tanks. Previously, the A321 family could accommodate up to two tanks.
The new configuration will become standard for all new delivered A321neo aircraft from around 2020, but the extra fuel tanks will be an option. Airbus expects to deliver the first A321LR by the end of the year to Israel’s Arkia, which became the de facto launch customer when, according to the manufacturer, Copenhagen-based Primera Air deferred delivery of two from lease company AerCap.