European regulators certify RTX's GTF engines on the Airbus A321XLR
EAST HARTFORD, Conn. - Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business in East Hartford, Conn., announced that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has certified its GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR. In support of the aircraft certification, updates were made to the PW1100G-JM engine's type certificates to include A321XLR, granted by EASA on 7 February, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on 12 December 2024.
"The GTF is the most fuel-efficient engine for single-aisle aircraft, and today's certification from EASA is a key milestone for the program," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR will provide longer range and higher payload capability, enabling new route options while reducing operating costs for our customers."
According to Airbus, the A321XLR burns 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft. Globally, 13 customers have selected GTF engines to power 217 A321XLR aircraft, with Wizz Air expected to be the first operator. To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. The next engine configuration, the GTF Advantage, is particularly well suited for the A321XLR, delivering higher take-off thrust and offering even better operating economics.
Related: Airbus A321XLR receives EASA type certification
Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, said, "The A321XLR already displays its great versatility crossing the Atlantic in daily operations. With the certification and entry-into-service of the GTF-powered A321XLR, we will see more operators introduce this game-changing aircraft. It is also good news for our customers’ passengers, who will benefit from the convenience of new direct city-to-city connections and a heightened level of cabin comfort.”
The A321XLR sits alongside widebody aircraft in an airline’s fleet. It offers the flexibility to increase capacity, open new routes, or continue operating existing ones when demand varies. This is achieved while consuming 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation competitor aircraft. The A321XLR’s new Airspace cabin will provide passengers with long-haul comfort in all classes.
