The newest Airbus A321XLR destined for the United States has made its appearance in Hamburg, Germany, proudly donning the vibrant American Airlines livery. Aviation enthusiasts have been buzzing this week as they caught glimpses of this ultra-long-range single-aisle jet undergoing its inaugural runway check on March 25, 2025. What makes this sighting even more exciting is the presence of the aircraft's two CFM International LEAP-1A engines, marked by the registration D-AZAB.

This milestone event brings back memories of last year when snapshots of the same American Airlines plane were captured, revealing only its tail painted in the distinct carrier colors. Fast forward to the present day, and the excitement mounts as the first flight of the A321XLR for American Airlines is just around the corner.

Pilotcenter.net News reports that both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have previously granted certification for the A321XLR equipped with CFM International LEAP-1A engines. Launch customers Iberia and Aer Lingus have already welcomed their A321XLRs, a model also chosen by Wizz Air and American Airlines. EASA recently greenlit the A321XLR with Pratt & Whitney PW1000G engines, with FAA approval pending for United Airlines' anticipated orders.

American Airlines' substantial order of 50 Airbus A321XLRs in 2019 is on track for delivery between 2025 and 2029. The airline plans to configure these jets with 20 private business class suites, set to phase out their current fleet of A321Ts in the coming years. The world watched in awe as Iberia received the maiden commercial-ready A321XLR in October 2024, marking the beginning of a new era in long-distance air travel.

With its impressive capability to cover distances up to 4,700 nautical miles, the A321XLR is a game-changer in the aviation industry. Airbus touts this aircraft as offering "single-aisle economics on widebody routes," promising passengers a 45% reduction in trip costs compared to larger jets. Stay tuned as American Airlines gears up to introduce the A321XLR into its fleet, ushering in a new era of travel efficiency and comfort.