Why Did Qanot Sharq Become Central Asia's First Airbus A321XLR Operator?

December 22, 2025 at 08:38 AM•2 min read

Qanot Sharq received its first Airbus A321XLR to expand its international route network, making it the first Central Asian operator of the long-range

Key Points

1Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq received its first [Airbus A321XLR](https://www.airbus.com) on December 19, 2025, becoming the first operator in Central Asia and the CIS.
2The aircraft is the first of four on long-term lease from [Air Lease Corporation](https://www.airleasecorp.com) and is configured with 190 seats, including 16 full-flat Business Class seats.
3The A321XLR's 4,700 nautical mile range enables new routes like Sanya, Busan, and New York (via Budapest), boosting connectivity across Asia-Pacific and Europe.
4The jet offers 30% lower fuel burn per seat and can operate on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with [Airbus](https://www.airbus.com) targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030.

Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq has reached a major milestone in its fleet modernization plan. The carrier took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft on December 19, 2025. This delivery makes Qanot Sharq the first A321XLR operator in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The aircraft arrived in Tashkent from the Airbus facility in Hamburg, Germany.

This is the first of four A321XLR jets for the airline. All four aircraft are secured under a long-term lease agreement. The leasing partner is the American firm Air Lease Corporation (ALC). The Airbus A321XLR delivery is central to Qanot Sharq's growth strategy.

Fleet Modernization and Expansion

The Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq plans significant international network expansion. The A321XLR’s capabilities will open new, longer routes. Planned destinations include Sanya and Busan in Asia. The airline also targets a long-haul route to New York via Budapest. This expansion is expected to enhance connectivity between Asia-Pacific and Europe. The new jet acts as a "game-changer" for the Tashkent hub. It bridges the gap between continents without needing larger widebody aircraft. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

The A321XLR Advantage

The A321XLR is the longest-range variant of the A320neo family. The long-range narrowbody aircraft can fly up to 4,700 nautical miles. This range is 15% greater than the A321LR model. It is powered by efficient CFM LEAP-1A engines. The aircraft offers a 30% reduction in fuel burn per seat. This efficiency is compared to previous-generation competitor jets.

Qanot Sharq configured the aircraft for 190 passengers. This includes 16 full-flat seats in Business Class. There are 174 seats in the Economy Class cabin. Passengers will benefit from the Airbus Airspace cabin. Features include enlarged XL overhead bins and ambient lighting. The design also incorporates in-seat connectivity for all travelers.

Commitment to Sustainability

The A321XLR aligns with industry sustainability goals. It reduces NOx emissions and noise levels. The aircraft is already capable of operating on fuel. This fuel can contain up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is working toward 100% SAF compatibility by 2030. This focus on efficiency is a key factor for airlines. It helps manage the challenges of rising fuel costs and environmental regulations.