American Airlines Debuts A321XLR with Flagship Suites on Dec. 18

American Airlines will become the first U.S. carrier to operate the Airbus A321XLR, launching its inaugural flight on December 18, 2025, from New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX). Tickets are now on sale for select A321XLR flights through February 11, 2026, as the airline introduces an elevated experience in the premium transcontinental market.

Delivered from Airbus’ Hamburg facility on October 22, American’s A321XLR features a three-cabin layout — the only one of its kind among global carriers operating the aircraft — with:

• 20 Flagship Suite® lie-flat seats with privacy doors

• 12 Premium Economy seats with leg rests and wireless charging

• 123 Main Cabin seats

“American is thrilled to be the first U.S. airline to operate the A321XLR,” said Heather Garboden, Chief Customer Officer. “This aircraft is designed for long journeys with comfort and style at the forefront.”

Premium Comfort on a Narrow-Body Jet

Flagship Suite® passengers receive:

• Priority check-in, boarding, baggage, and Greenwich Lounge™ access at JFK

• A multicourse inflight meal paired with award-winning wines

• Amenity kits with luxury skincare items

• A duvet and dual-sided pillow for inflight rest

Premium Economy travelers enjoy:

• Enhanced privacy headrests

• Foot and calf rests

• Hot entrees, premium amenity kits, and Ostrichpillow® lumbar support

Looking Ahead: International Routes Coming in 2026

Initially serving transcontinental U.S. routes, the A321XLR will expand to international service in the first half of 2026, with details to be announced soon.

With the A321XLR, American reinforces its commitment to modernizing its fleet and providing a refined, premium customer journey, coast-to-coast and beyond.