Qantas’ next-generation Airbus A321XLR aircraft has started flying from Brisbane Airport, bringing the latest in aircraft technology to the Sunshine state.

The A321XLR will operate return services between Brisbane and Sydney, marking the newest route for the state-of-the-art aircraft which Qantas launched for the first time in September.

The national carrier is only the fourth airline in the world to operate the A321XLR and the first airline in Asia Pacific.

The arrival of the A321XLR in Brisbane marks another milestone in Qantas’ fleet renewal program and features a wider and longer cabin than previous generation narrowbody aircraft, wider seats, higher ceilings, larger windows, fast and free Wi-Fi and space for around 60 per cent more bags than Qantas’ Boeing 737s.

The A321XLR also uses less fuel per seat than the 737 it replaces, enabling a reduction in carbon emissions.

The Qantas Group operates more than 2,000 domestic and international flights to and from Brisbane every week. The Queensland capital is also home to the Group’s heavy maintenance and engineering facility, with the Group employing more than 3,800 employees across the state.

Qantas Domestic CEO, Markus Svensson, said the A321XLR now flying to Brisbane enables more people to experience the latest in aircraft technology and comfort.

“Qantas has a proud history in Queensland, having been founded in Winton 105 years ago, so bringing our newest aircraft to the state is particularly meaningful,” Svensson said.

“We’ve had great feedback from customers who have flown on the aircraft, with its 60% larger onboard baggage space a real drawcard and a much quieter cabin than previous generation aircraft.

“The A321XLR is also far more efficient than the previous generation aircraft it is replacing, which is helping us to progress toward our sustainability goals.

“We’re sure the A321XLR will be well received on our Sydney-Brisbane service, one of our busiest routes.”

Qantas has taken delivery of two A321XLRs, with its third aircraft, Seven Peaks Walk (VH-OGC), expected to be delivered over the coming weeks.

In August, the airline increased its total A321XLR order to 48 aircraft, with lie-flat Business seats to be fitted on 16 of them to serve longer routes, including transcontinental services to and from Perth, and short and medium haul international routes.

The A321XLR is a key part of the Qantas Group’s largest ever fleet renewal program, with more than 200 aircraft on firm order and additional purchase right options with both Airbus and Boeing providing flexibility for future growth.