Airbus is nearing the completion of its certification and flight-test campaign for the A321XLR, the latest iteration in its single-aisle airliner family, known for its extended range capabilities. This phase includes the meticulous route-proving flights recently conducted by partnering airlines and preparations to ensure the first operators receive the necessary support for airworthiness compliance and operational smoothness from day one. Essential provisions include technical documentation and strategically placed spares, coupled with on-site expert support.
Over the past four years, Airbus’ Customer Services department has integrated closely with the A321XLR development team. This collaboration has facilitated the embedding of in-service feedback directly into the aircraft’s design and allowed for a thorough assessment of new components for potential in-service issues. Such synergies aim to enhance the aircraft’s readiness and the robustness of supporting procedures once the airliner enters service.
Post-delivery, Airbus plans to continue its support for launch operators. This sustained effort will focus on updating technical documents, ensuring global availability of spare parts, and providing comprehensive training and operational support. This strategic approach addresses one of the primary challenges in certifying new aircraft models: the production of “Instructions for Continued Airworthiness” (ICAs). These documents, critical for maintaining the airworthiness standard of the aircraft throughout its operational life, must be complete and submitted by summer 2024.
ICAs cover a wide range of information, from overhaul periods to the specifics of using specialized tools and conducting maintenance procedures. These documents also extend to engines, with respective manufacturers responsible for the relevant overhaul instructions. With airworthiness regulations mandating a 100% completion rate of ICAs by the entry-into-service (EIS) deadline, the pressure mounts on manufacturers to deliver all required procedures in advance.
The A321XLR, while sharing many parts and processes with the Airbus Single-Aisle Family, introduces significant design enhancements to support its long-range capabilities. These include new main landing gears, wing flaps, and an integrated long-range rear centre fuel tank (RCT), necessitating updates to existing ICAs. Notably, the new extended belly fairing, developed to increase protection in specific crash scenarios like a belly landing, exemplifies the updates required in the structural repair manual (SRM) to reflect its new safety function.
The ability to repair the belly fairing autonomously, as is possible with the A321neo, is limited in the XLR due to the part’s additional safety role. Airbus anticipates this by updating repair procedures in the SRM and positioning pre-emptive spares and tooling through its service organization, Satair, and its global logistics hubs.
In extreme scenarios, Airbus retains the capability to source parts directly from its final assembly line or supply chain, ensuring comprehensive support for the A321XLR fleet. This approach underscores Airbus’s commitment to a seamless transition and reliable service for its newest aircraft model.