Queenslanders are getting their first taste of Qantas’ newest narrowbody jet today, with the Airbus A321XLR stepping onto the Sydney-Brisbane run – Australia’s second busiest route – for the first time.
Debuting in September on Sydney to Melbourne and Perth services, the new plane introduces flyers to a roomier cabin, with higher ceilings, larger windows and wider seats than older narrowbodies.
It also offers free wi-fi, quieter ride and significantly more overhead storage – around 60 per cent more space than the B737s it begins to replace. The aircraft also uses less fuel per seat, which supports a reduction in emissions.
Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson said the carrier has already received great feedback from customers who have experienced the aircraft, which puts it in good standing as it’s introduced to Australia’s holiday capital state.
“Qantas has a proud history in Queensland, having been founded in Winton 105 years ago, so bringing our newest aircraft to the state is particularly meaningful,” he remarked.
“The A321XLR is also far more efficient than the previous generation aircraft it is replacing, which is helping us to progress toward our sustainability goals.”
Brisbane Airport has welcomed the aircraft’s arrival, calling the upgrade a step forward for travellers.
“This aircraft is quieter than the 737s it replaces, and we know fleet renewal is great news not only for passengers, but also for our neighbouring communities,” Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said.
As Brisbane Airport celebrates its 100th anniversary, de Graaff added that the new jet’s arrival supports the hub’s terminal upgrades.
“We’re investing in screening upgrades, expanded retail and dining options, and improved passenger facilities to create a world-class airport experience from check-in through to boarding,” he stated.
Qantas has two A321XLRs in service and expects its third, Seven Peaks Walk, to arrive shortly.
Karryon was one of the first to experience the new plane on a special preview flight from Sydney to Melbourne in September. Read about our experience here.
KARRYON UNPACKS: This upgrade is a quiet win for travellers who spend plenty of time on the Sydney-Brisbane shuttle. The roomier cabin and extra bag space alone should alleviate common pain points on a route dominated by business flyers and frequent flyers. For Brisbane-based travellers, it also signals the city’s growing importance in Qantas’ broader strategy as fleet renewal ramps up. And with lie-flat Business seats coming on later A321XLR variants, this rollout feels like the warm-up act for a much bigger network shift.
