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Airbus A321XLR vs. Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)

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A321XLR

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Q400 (Dash 8)

Price (USD)
$129 Million$32 Million
First Flight
20221998
Body Type
Narrow-bodyNarrow-body
Length
44 m146 ft
32 m107 ft
Wingspan
35 m117 ft
28 m93 ft
Wing Area
122 m²1,317 ft²
64 m²688 ft²
Fuselage Width
4 m13 ft
2 m8 ft
Height
11 m38 ft
8 m27 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
101,000 kg222,667 lbs
30,500 kg67,241 lbs
Number of Engines
22
Engine Options
CFMI LEAP-1A / P&W PW1000GPratt & Whitney PW150A
Max Thrust Per Engine
151 kN34,000 lbf
3,800 kW5,071 shp
Max Total Thrust
302 kN68,000 lbf
7,600 kW10,142 shp
Fuel Capacity
39,500 l10,435 gal
6,530 l1,725 gal
Range
8,704 km4,700 nm
2,040 km1,102 nm
Cruise Speed
832 km/h517 mph
644 km/h400 mph
Typical Seating
220 pax76 pax
Max Seating
244 pax90 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Airbus A321XLR and Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)

Airbus A321XLR vs Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8) Size Comparison

  • At 44.50 meters, the Airbus A321XLR is 11.60 meters longer than the Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8).
  • With a wingspan of 35.80 meters, the Airbus A321XLR is 7.40 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Airbus A321XLR and Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8) have heights of 11.80 meters and 8.40 meters respectively - making the Airbus A321XLR 3.40 meters taller.

Airbus A321XLR vs Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8) Range

  • Airbus A321XLR’s range of 8,704 kilometers is greater than Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)’s range of 2,040 kilometers. Therefore, the Airbus A321XLR can fly nonstop approximately 6,664 kilometers further.
  • The Airbus A321XLR can hold 10,435 gallons of fuel, which is 8,710 gallons more than the Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)’s tank capacity of 1,725 gallons.

Airbus A321XLR vs Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8) Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Airbus A321XLR can accommodate 220 passengers, which is about 144 passengers more than Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)’s seating capacity.
  • The Airbus A321XLR’s max seating capacity is 244 passengers, compared to 90 passengers of the Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8).

About the Airbus A321XLR

The Airbus A321XLR is an extra long range variant of the A321neo. Unveiled at the Paris Air Show in 2019, the A321XLR represents a groundbreaking evolution in narrow-body aircraft for long-haul travel. Boasting an exceptional range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 kilometers), this is a significant leap from its predecessor, the A321neo. Enhancements in range stem from enhanced fuel capacity and aerodynamic improvements position the XLR as a leading choice for airlines in need of efficient, longer-range single-aisle aircraft. 

The A321XLR's development is a continuation of the A320 family's legacy of innovation, which began with the A320's introduction in the 1980s and expanded with the A321's launch in the 1990s as a stretched variant. As the newest member of this distinguished lineage, the A321XLR has been engineered to deliver unparalleled fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, key factors that align with the aviation industry's escalating focus on sustainability. These advancements are achieved through state-of-the-art engine optimizations and refined aerodynamics, including new wingtip designs.

The introduction of the A321XLR is particularly significant in its ability to transform the dynamics of long-haul travel. Its extended range capability enables it to operate transatlantic routes and other long-haul flights, which were previously the domain of larger twin-aisle aircraft. This feature opens up new possibilities for airlines to explore longer, thinner routes that are not economically viable with larger aircraft, allowing for more direct flights and enhanced route networks. The A321XLR's appeal is evident in its rapidly growing list of global customers, including major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, Qantas, and AirAsia. These operators recognize the A321XLR's potential to revolutionize their fleet capabilities, providing the flexibility to service a wider array of destinations more efficiently and sustainably. The aircraft's unique combination of range, efficiency, and single-aisle economics makes it a strategic asset for airlines looking to expand their reach while minimizing environmental impact.

In essence, the Airbus A321XLR is poised to redefine the parameters of single-aisle long-haul aviation, offering an innovative solution that marries extended range with environmental consciousness and operational efficiency. Its introduction marks a significant milestone in commercial aviation, reflecting a shift towards more versatile, sustainable, and economically viable air travel solutions in the global market.

About the Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)

The Bombardier Q400, belonging to the DHC Dash 8 series, is a turboprop aircraft engineered for regional aviation. With a length of 32.9 meters (107.9 feet) and a wingspan of 28.4 meters (93.2 feet), the Q400 is designed to operate efficiently in diverse regional airport environments. It strives in operations that require agility and short takeoff and landing capabilities. From the outside, the Q400 can be identified by its high-wing design, 6-bladed propellors, T-tail, and wing-mounted landing gears. The Q400 was the most popular variant of the Dash 8, with over 600 delivered as of September 2019. De Havilland ultimately paused Dash 8-Q400 production in 2021 due to the pandemic and lack of demand.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW150A engines, the aircraft is capable of producing a substantial power output, . This power enables the Q400 to achieve a range of approximately 2,040 kilometers (1,102 nautical miles), making it a suitable choice for various regional routes, from short hops to more extended connections. The selection of turboprop engines for the Q400 reflects a focus on fuel efficiency and operational cost-effectiveness, key considerations in the regional airline market. The cabin of the Q400, configured to seat about 76 passengers in a standard layout, can be adapted to accommodate up to 90 passengers in high-density seating arrangements. This flexibility allows airlines to optimize the aircraft for different route profiles. The cabin design incorporates elements aimed at improving passenger comfort, such as noise reduction, which is particularly beneficial during the shorter flights typical in regional travel.

In the regional aircraft market, the Bombardier Q400 offers an alternative to similar capacity regional jets, like the ATR 72. The aircraft's competitive edge lies in its combination of turboprop efficiency with a passenger capacity that approaches that of larger regional jets. This balance makes the Q400 a viable option for airlines operating a range of regional routes. Operators of the Q400, including Porter Airlines, Flybe, and Horizon Air, have found the aircraft suitable for their diverse regional networks. The Q400's operational profile allows these airlines to service routes efficiently, connecting smaller cities and towns with major hubs. The aircraft's role in these fleets underscores its suitability for the specific demands of regional air travel, where efficiency, versatility, and cost-effectiveness are paramount.

In summary, the Bombardier Q400's introduction into the regional aviation sector provided airlines with an aircraft that aligns well with the operational requirements of short to medium-haul routes. Its design, capacity, and range capabilities make it a noteworthy choice for airlines looking to enhance their regional operations.

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Values shown may not be 100% accurate, as some metrics are averages or only represent certain production years and configurations. Engine specs are based on the best options available.

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