Qantas has revealed a new Business Suite for its Airbus A321XLR fleet, bringing a lie-flat bed to a Qantas single-aisle aircraft for the first time as part of the airline’s largest fleet renewal in its history.
The suites are designed for longer routes on the next generation narrowbody aircraft, including transcontinental services to and from Perth, as well as short and medium haul international routes. Qantas said premium cabin revenue is growing at twice the rate of Economy across its international network, with the new aircraft carrying a higher proportion of premium seats than those they replace.
Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said the new suites reflected a shift in demand for premium travel.
“Investing in new aircraft is one of the most significant ways we can enhance the flying experience,” she said.
“Qantas introduced Business Class to the world in 1979, and we’ve continued to redefine what it means ever since. These new Suites on our next generation narrowbody fleet are another step in that journey, transforming the premium cabin experience and the level of comfort for our customers flying on longer domestic and short and medium haul international services.”
Lie-flat comfort on a single-aisle aircraft
Each A321XLR will feature the suites in a 1-1 configuration with an angled herringbone layout – a first for a Qantas single-aisle aircraft – giving every customer a lie-flat bed and a sliding privacy door. Each suite includes a 19-inch entertainment screen, wireless and USB-C charging, fast and free Wi-Fi, and additional storage for laptops and personal items.
The first of 16 A321XLRs configured with the new Business Suites is due to arrive in 2028. The aircraft has a range of up to 8,700 kilometres – more than 3,000 kilometres further than the Boeing 737.
An evolved suite for long haul flying
Qantas has also unveiled an evolved Business Suite for its additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on order, with the 42 suites on each aircraft to include a sliding privacy door for the first time on a Qantas Dreamliner. The updated seat offers an 80-inch lie-flat bed with a wider footwell, developed following ergonomic trials and customer feedback, along with a 19-inch screen and restyled storage in a colour inspired by the red earth of Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
Customers flying Business across Qantas’ international network have access to Qantas lounges, priority check-in and boarding, a generous baggage allowance and premium onboard dining.
