Particle.news
Download on the App Store

American Becomes First U.S. Carrier to Fly Airbus A321XLR, Starting JFKLAX on Dec. 18

Suite doors remain open initially pending FAA certification.

Overview

  • American previewed the new long‑range narrowbody at JFK and will use it to replace A321T aircraft on premium transcon routes including JFKSFO, JFKSNA and BOSLAX.
  • The first announced transatlantic deployment is New YorkJFK to Edinburgh beginning in March 2026, with additional European and South America markets to follow as deliveries ramp.
  • The 155‑seat layout includes 20 Flagship Suite lie‑flat seats, 12 premium economy seats and 123 in economy, with seatback entertainment, Bluetooth audio and power at every seat.
  • American has 50 A321XLRs on order and plans about 40 in service by 2030, having taken initial deliveries; Airbus notes this is the first FAA‑certified XLR to fly in the U.S.
  • AAdvantage members are slated to receive complimentary onboard Wi‑Fi starting in 2026 through a new partnership with AT&T.