American Airlines is focusing on expanding its premium offerings by introducing new planes with more business and premium economy seats. In early 2025, the airline began operating its Boeing 787-9P aircraft, designated for premium service. Additionally, it will soon become the first U.S. carrier to fly the Airbus A321XLR, a single-aisle jet with extended range capabilities suitable for transatlantic flights. This smaller aircraft allows airlines like American and United to consider flying to lesser-known destinations in Europe and South America that are typically overlooked by U.S. carriers in favor of more popular tourist spots. These carriers believe that consumers will be willing to pay a premium for enhanced products, such as lie-flat seats.
American Airlines invited me to preview its first A321XLR aircraft before its commercial debut on December 18, 2025, on a flight from New York’s JFK International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport. The aircraft features a new design language consistent with American’s recent plane deliveries. The A321XLR has a total of 155 seats, including 20 Flagship Suite business class seats in a 1-1 configuration, 12 premium economy seats in a 2-2 configuration, 12 Main Cabin Extra economy seats with extra legroom in a 3-3 configuration, and 123 Main Cabin economy seats in a 3-3 configuration.
The premium economy seats offer passengers more legroom, increased recline, and upgraded amenities at a relatively affordable price compared to business class fares. However, the introduction of premium economy seats has led to a reduction in Main Cabin Extra seats on the A321XLR compared to other A321 family aircraft. Despite this, every seat on the A321XLR is equipped with a screen and Bluetooth connectivity.
The A321XLR’s Flagship Suite business class features 20 seats with direct aisle access and lie-flat beds, offering passengers a luxurious experience. Each seat includes useful features like wireless charging pads, water bottle holders, illuminated cocktail trays, and extra storage space. While the suites have privacy doors, their use is pending Federal Aviation Administration certification. Passengers can expect the doors to remain open initially.
Overall, the A321XLR provides a comfortable and upscale flying experience, catering to passengers seeking premium amenities and services. Experience the exclusive premium economy seats on the A321XLR, offering a cozy setting with 12 seats in total. Each row consists of two seats on either side of the aisle, providing a comfortable journey similar to domestic first class on a narrowbody plane. While you won’t have direct aisle access like in business class, you can enjoy privacy wings by the headrest, wireless charging, and deployable calf and footrests for added comfort.
The economy section of the A321XLR is smaller compared to other planes in American’s A321 fleet, especially Main Cabin Extra. With only 12 extra-legroom seats available, you’ll notice the difference in space. These seats are easily identifiable by their brown headrests and feature 4K monitors with USB-A and USB-C ports for your convenience.
In addition to the premium seating, the Airbus planes are equipped with spacious overhead bins, ensuring ample storage space for passengers. If you prefer a window seat, avoid row 25 as it lacks windows. As American Airlines expands its A321XLR flights, you can expect to see more routes to transcontinental and international destinations. Keep an eye out for these flights on American’s website or app by searching for “32Q-Airbus A321XLR” to ensure you’re booking the right flight. Remember that aircraft swaps can occur, so plane types are not guaranteed. The text is missing, could you please provide more context or details?