Qanot Sharq receives first A321XLR, becoming launch operator in Central Asia

Qanot Sharq, a private passenger airline in Uzbekistan, took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR on December 19. The aircraft was handed over as part of a long-term lease agreement for four aircraft with Air Lease Corporation.

Qanot Sharq is the first carrier to operate the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States. The airline aims to modernize its fleet and expand its international network with the new aircraft.

“I am delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Air Lease as we welcome our first A321XLR,” said Nosir Abdugafarov, owner of Qanot Sharq Airlines.

“Air Lease is proud to be the first lessor to introduce the A321XLR to Asia with our valued partner Qanot Sharq, an airline we have supported since day one,” said AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease.

The delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines and configured with 190 seats in two classes—16 fully lie-flat business class seats and 174 economy seats. The aircraft offers a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, representing a 15% increase over the A321LR and 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous-generation models.

Qanot Sharq’s fleet previously included one A320ceo, two A321neo, and three A330-200 widebody aircraft. The addition of the A321XLR is expected to further diversify and extend the carrier’s operational reach.

The A321XLR has secured more than 500 orders globally, underscoring strong market demand for long-range single-aisle aircraft. The type is positioned to serve thin long-haul routes that are not viable for larger widebodies.

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