Air TransportAirbus A220-300 to increase seating from 2027
Airbus plans to introduce a higher-capacity version of the A220-300 in 2027, increasing its maximum passenger configuration by around 10 seats to up to 160. The changes follow a series of ongoing updates to the aircraft family, including the implementation of the Airspace cabin concept starting in 2026.
“The A220 will see even better cabin efficiency with the launch of the 160-seat A220-300 in 2027, which will increase the aircraft’s maximum passenger capacity by about 10 seats,” said the planemaker.
Officially, the A220-300 can carry 160 passengers, but this configuration is not EASA-certified because it requires more emergency exits. The jet typically operates with about 146 seats in a single-class layout.
The Airspace cabin, already present in other Airbus models such as the A350 and A320neo, will add features focused on passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Among the updates, the new Airspace XL overhead bins are 20% lighter and offer 15% more storage capacity compared to previous versions, with design improvements that enhance loading and closing efficiency.
Another notable change is the adaptive LED lighting system, capable of displaying over 16 million colors. This technology aims to help reduce jet lag on longer flights.
A220-500
The cabin layout maintains the A220’s five-abreast configuration in economy class, combining space utilization and seat density. Economy seats have a width of 18.5 inches, one of the widest among single-aisle jets.
The A220’s windows measure 11 by 16 inches, making them the largest in the single-aisle segment and allowing more natural light into the cabin. The aircraft is equipped with modern connectivity options, including in-seat power, WiFi, and on-demand video. Accessibility is addressed by lavatory design and placement to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.
The high-density variant of the A220 is a response to demand from some customers seeking, for example, to adapt the aircraft to leisure routes and ultra-low-cost flights.
Airbus has been considering an ‘A220-500’ for years, but recently stated that it must first reach a monthly production rate of 14 aircraft before beginning any more complex development.
A longer variant is being weighed against cost and potential limitations on range and efficiency. Despite this, the European manufacturer has not yet confirmed whether or not it will expand the Canadian jet family.
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