In order to increase industrial capacity and flexibility, Airbus has announced its plan to create new A321 production capabilities at its site in Toulouse.
By mid-2022 the facility in Toulouse – which was most recently home to A380 production – will consist of a digitally-enabled A321 line. Until now, Airbus’ Hamburg factory was the only European based assembly line for the A321, while Alabama USA was its US counterpart. Airbus has declared that this development will allow greater flexibility and scope for its A321 production.
“We are enjoying an unprecedented high demand for our winning A320neo Family and especially its A321 Long Range (LR) and Xtra Long Range (XLR) derivatives,” said Michael Schoellhorn, Airbus Chief Operating Officer. “In order to optimise the industrial flow, we have decided to increase our global A321 production capacity and flexibility as well as to establish a next generation Final Assembly Line in Toulouse.”
According to Airbus, Toulouse was selected for several reasons such as: overall competitiveness, time to market, investment cost, available floor space and resources. The A321XLR is slated for entry into service by 2023.