This Workhorse Will Call Australia Home – First Qantas A321XLR Lands in Sydney

Qantas’ first Airbus A321XLR (registration VH-OGA) has finally touched down in Sydney—right in the middle of strong gusty winds and rain. Despite the challenging weather, the brand-new jet made a steady and confident arrival from Hamburg via Bangkok. Named “Great Ocean Road,” this long-range narrowbody is the first of 28 A321XLRs that Qantas has ordered as part of its fleet renewal program. It features a cabin layout with 20 Business Class and up to 180 Economy Class seats, and boasts a range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,704 km)—allowing it to fly routes as long as Sydney to Hong Kong or Phuket. Airbus claims the A321XLR offers 30% lower fuel burn and a 50% smaller noise footprint, making it not only efficient but also quieter and more sustainable. This marks a major step in Qantas' domestic and regional long-haul operations. Credit: the range illustration graph and seating photos are due to Qantas. #qantas #airbus #a321 #landing #sydney