• UPDATE: Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR, Becoming First Operator in Central Asia
HAMBURG, Germany – Uzbekistan’s private airline Qanot Sharq took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft on December 19, 2025. The delivery makes the carrier the first to operate the new extra-long-range model in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
What is new?
Qanot Sharq, a private passenger airline based in Uzbekistan, has received the first of four A321XLR aircraft it will operate. The aircraft was formally delivered in Hamburg and is part of a long-term lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation. With this addition, Qanot Sharq becomes the inaugural operator of the A321XLR type in its region.
Strategic Expansion
The new aircraft supports the airline’s strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its international route network. Qanot Sharq plans to launch new routes to key markets including Sanya, Busan, and New York City with a stop in Budapest. The A321XLR’s range is intended to significantly enhance the airline’s connectivity between the Asia-Pacific region and Europe.
Aircraft Details
The A321XLR is powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines. It is configured in a two-class layout with 190 seats, comprising 16 full-flat Business Class seats and 174 in Economy Class. The aircraft features Airbus’ Airspace Cabin, which includes larger overhead bins providing 60% more storage space than previous generation aircraft. In-seat connectivity is available to all passengers, and an advanced lighting system is installed to improve the cabin experience.
A321XLR Capabilities
The A321XLR is an evolution of the A320neo Family, designed for increased range and payload. It offers a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, which is 15% more than the A321LR model. Airbus states the aircraft provides a 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft, along with reduced NOx emissions and noise. The aircraft can currently operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and Airbus aims for its aircraft to be capable of using 100% SAF by 2030. To date, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the A321XLR.
About this company
Airbus is a European aerospace and defense manufacturer. The company produces commercial aircraft, helicopters, satellites, and defense systems, and is one of the world’s leading suppliers of passenger planes.
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