EASA certifies Airbus A321XLR aircraft powered by RTX's Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines

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Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, has achieved a significant milestone with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certifying the GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR. The certification includes updates to the PW1100G-JM engine's type certificates, granted by EASA on February 7, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on December 12, 2024.

The GTF engine stands as the most fuel-efficient option for single-aisle aircraft, with the A321XLR demonstrating 30% less fuel consumption per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. Currently, 13 customers have chosen GTF engines for 217 A321XLR aircraft, with Wizz Air set to be the first operator. The GTF engine family has already been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide, powering more than 2,200 aircraft.

The upcoming GTF Advantage configuration is specifically optimized for the A321XLR, promising enhanced take-off thrust and improved operating economics.

Prepares the way for entry into service

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, today marks the certification of the GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), preparing the way for entry into service. In support of the aircraft certification, updates were made to the PW1100G-JM engine's type certificates to include A321XLR, granted by EASA on February 7, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on December 12, 2024.

"The GTF is the most fuel-efficient engine for single-aisle aircraft, and today's certification from EASA is a key milestone for the program," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR will provide longer range and higher payload capability, enabling new route options while reducing operating costs for our customers."  

According to Airbus, the A321XLR burns 30% less fuel per seat than previous generation aircraft. Globally, 13 customers have selected GTF engines to power 217 A321XLR aircraft, with Wizz Air expected to be the first operator. To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. The next configuration of the engine, the GTF Advantage, is particularly well suited for the A321XLR, delivering higher take-off thrust and offering even better operating economics.

About Pratt & Whitney
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more visit www.prattwhitney.com.

About RTX
RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@rtx.com.

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SOURCE RTX

FAQ

What fuel efficiency improvements does the RTX GTF-powered A321XLR offer?

The Airbus A321XLR powered by RTX's GTF engines burns 30% less fuel per seat compared to previous generation aircraft.

How many A321XLR aircraft orders with GTF engines has RTX secured?

13 customers have selected GTF engines to power 217 A321XLR aircraft.

When did EASA and FAA certify the GTF engines for the A321XLR?

EASA granted certification on February 7, 2025, while the FAA certification was received on December 12, 2024.

Which airline will be the first to operate the GTF-powered A321XLR?

Wizz Air is expected to be the first operator of the GTF-powered A321XLR.

How many GTF-powered aircraft has RTX delivered globally?

More than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide.

What improvements does the new GTF Advantage configuration offer for the A321XLR?

The GTF Advantage configuration delivers higher take-off thrust and offers better operating economics for the A321XLR.