American Airlines is set to become the first U.S. operator of the Airbus A321XLR when the aircraft enters commercial service later this year.
The carrier said the type will debut Dec. 18, flying from New York-JFK to Los Angeles.
American received its first A321XLR aircraft from Airbus on Wednesday.
“Designed for long journeys with comfort and style at the forefront, American is thrilled to be the first U.S. airline to operate the A321XLR,” Heather Garboden, American’s chief customer officer, said in a news release. “Whether customers are traveling from coast to coast or across the ocean, American’s newest aircraft demonstrates our commitment to providing a premium travel experience.”
The airline said it will initially use the A321XLR on transcontinental U.S. flights. The type will enter international service in the first half of 2026.
American’s A321XLRs have a three-class cabin layout, with high-end Flagship Suite seats installed toward the front of the aircraft. The Flagship Suites come with lie-flat seats, privacy doors, personal storage space, wireless charging ports, a cocktail tray, and a personal reading light.
Flagship Suite customers also get priority check-in, security, boarding, and baggage handling, as well as expanded in-flight dining options, amenity kits, and other perks.
Each American A321XLR will have 20 Flagship Suite seats, 12 premium economy seats, and 123 main cabin seats.
United expects to take delivery of its first A321XLR aircraft next year, while Delta has said it will not use the type and plans to continue using widebody jets on transatlantic routes.
