Qanot Sharq Takes Delivery of Its First Airbus A321XLR Aircraft

Why It Matters

The delivery gives Qanot Sharq a competitive edge in long‑haul connectivity while showcasing the A321XLR’s efficiency, positioning the carrier for growth in high‑margin international markets.

Key Takeaways

• First A321XLR operator in Central Asia and CIS
• Four‑plane lease from Air Lease expands fleet capacity
• 190‑seat layout includes 16 flat‑bed business seats
• 30% lower seat‑fuel burn versus older rivals
• Capable of 4,700 nm range, enabling New York route

Pulse Analysis

The Airbus A321XLR represents a pivotal evolution in the single‑aisle market, delivering ultra‑long‑range capability that bridges the gap between traditional narrow‑body and wide‑body aircraft. For Qanot Sharq, adopting this platform signals a strategic shift toward higher‑yield routes, leveraging the aircraft’s 190‑seat configuration and modern cabin amenities to attract premium travelers. By securing a lease from Air Lease, the airline mitigates capital risk while rapidly modernising its fleet, a move that aligns with the broader trend of emerging carriers upgrading to fuel‑efficient jets.

Qanot Sharq’s route blueprint—targeting Asian hubs like Sanya and Busan, and a trans‑Atlantic service to New York via Budapest—exploits the A321XLR’s 4,700‑nautical‑mile range. This enables the carrier to tap lucrative long‑haul markets without the cost structure of larger wide‑bodies, potentially increasing load factors and yield per seat. The new connectivity also strengthens Uzbekistan’s position as a regional gateway, fostering tourism and trade flows that benefit ancillary sectors such as hospitality and logistics.

Beyond commercial advantages, the A321XLR’s environmental credentials are noteworthy. With a 30% reduction in fuel burn per seat and compatibility with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel today, the aircraft aligns with global decarbonisation goals. Airbus’s roadmap toward 100% SAF capability by 2030 further enhances the aircraft’s appeal to eco‑conscious passengers and regulators. Qanot Sharq’s early adoption may serve as a benchmark for other Central Asian airlines seeking to balance growth with sustainability, reinforcing the A321XLR’s role as a catalyst for greener, more efficient long‑haul operations.

Qanot Sharq takes delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft

Hamburg, Germany, 19 December 2025

Qanot Sharq, one of Uzbekistan's leading private passenger airlines, has taken delivery of its first of four A321XLR aircraft via a long‑term lease agreement with Air Lease (NYSE: AL).

With this delivery, Qanot Sharq becomes the first A321XLR operator in Central Asia and the CIS, reinforcing the airline's ambition to modernise its fleet and expand its international route network. The airline plans to operate new routes to key markets across Asia, including Sanya and Busan, and New York City (via Budapest), while significantly enhancing Qanot Sharq's connectivity across Asia‑Pacific and Europe.

Powered by CFM LEAP‑1A engines, the aircraft is configured with 190 seats in a two‑class layout featuring 16 full‑flat Business Class seats and 174 Economy Class seats. It offers passengers and cabin crew the enhanced comfort of Airbus’ Airspace Cabin, featuring XL overhead bins with 60 % more storage space compared with previous‑generation aircraft. In‑seat connectivity is available to all passengers, and the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.

The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step of the A320neo family, responding to market needs for more range and payload, creating even more value for airlines. It will deliver an unprecedented extra‑long range of up to 4 700 nm—about 15 % more range than the A321LR—and 30 % lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous‑generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR is already able to operate with up to 50 % Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100 % SAF‑capable by 2030.