Why Qantas Is Making the Switch
Qantas is modernising it’s domestic fleet and replacing its Boeing 737 with the Airbus A321XLR on a growing number of routes. For passengers, the change affects seat numbers, cabin space, flight range and even toilet availability, so here is how the two planes stack up.
Size and Seat Count
The A321XLR is five metres longer than the 737 and carries up to 200 seats, compared with 168 on the 737. That extra length gives Qantas more room to work with, and it means more passengers can be carried on each flight.
Overhead Locker Space
One of the more practical upgrades is storage. The overhead lockers on the A321XLR fit 60% more bags than the 737. For anyone who has ever flown at peak times and had to store their bag under the seat because the overhead lockers were full, that is a welcome improvement.
Flying Range
The A321XLR also nearly doubles the flying range, jumping from 4,800 kilometres on the 737 to 8,700 kilometres. That opens up direct routes to Southeast Asia and the Pacific that the 737 simply could not reach, which means fewer connections and shorter overall travel times on those journeys.
The Toilet Problem Qantas Had to Fix
The 737 had two economy toilets for up to 156 seats. The A321XLR launched with the same two, which was a problem on a bigger plane flying longer routes. Qantas has since updated the layout to three economy lavatories. Given the increased flying capacity and the longer flights, it’s a welcome change for passengers.
What This Means for Your Next Flight
Overall, the A321XLR looks like a clear step up on paper: more seats, more bag space, longer range and an improved toilet ratio. The real test will be how it feels onboard, especially on the longer routes it now makes possible.
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