Qatar Airways to receive first A321LR in 2026

Qatar Airways is set to receive its first Airbus A321LR aircraft in December 2026, with a planned first flight on January 1, 2027, to celebrate the airline’s 30th anniversary. The aircraft will feature a new business class layout designed to enhance passenger comfort on single-aisle planes.

Business class upgrades on the A321LR

The A321LR will be equipped with 16 business suites based on the STELIA Aerospace OPERA platform. These suites will have a 1-1 layout with sliding doors that can convert into fully horizontal beds, aiming to bring the in-flight experience of single-aisle aircraft closer to that of wide-body planes.

Qsuite designation reserved for larger aircraft

Qatar Airways will not use the "Qsuite" name for this configuration, reserving it for its A350 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The airline is focusing on differentiating its premium offerings across its fleet of varying sizes.

A321LR’s range and potential routes

The A321LR has a maximum range of 4,000 nautical miles, enabling flights up to eight hours. This could open up potential routes to European destinations like Munich, though specific destinations are yet to be confirmed, as the airline will assess operational and payload considerations.

History of Qatar Airways’ A321neo conversions

Qatar Airways previously converted ten A321neo aircraft into A321LR versions in 2019. This followed an initial order in 2011 for A320neo aircraft, which was later changed to 50 A321neo ACF aircraft in 2017. The first delivery of the LR version is now expected in late 2026, several years after the original plan.

Delays due to Airbus dispute

The program faced delays due to a dispute between Airbus and Qatar Airways over surface degradation on certain A350s. This led to the cancellation of the A321neo order in 2022, but a confidential settlement in February 2023 allowed the program to continue.

Comparison with Etihad Airways’ A321LR program

Qatar Airways’ move aligns with similar efforts by Etihad Airways, which received its first A321LR in July 2025. Both airlines have chosen the OPERA platform, but Qatar Airways plans to provide sliding doors for all 16 business class seats, while Etihad will only install them in first-class suites.