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SIGNAL · QANTAS-TO-LAUNCH-BRISBANE-MANILA-A321XLR-SERVICE-ON-OCTOBER-25-2026 · Feb 28

Qantas to Launch Brisbane-Manila A321XLR Service on October 25, 2026

Qantas begins daily A321XLR service between Brisbane and Manila on October 25, 2026, replacing the A330-200. The aircraft features 20 reclining business class seats with no seatback entertainment, a notable product downgrade for the route

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Why it matters

Affects Qantas loyalty members and route planners.

What happened

  • Product Change: Downgrade from flat-bed A330 to recliner A321XLR.
  • Pricing: Business class fares remain unchanged despite the product reduction.
  • Context: This is the longest regularly scheduled narrow-body route for Qantas. It serves as a test for the A321XLR's international viability.
  • Competitor: Philippine Airlines flies A321neos with flat beds on this route

Qantas is launching its Airbus A321XLR on international service, starting with daily nonstop flights between Brisbane (BNE) and Manila (MNL) effective October 25, 2026. This route previously operated 5x weekly with an Airbus A330-200. The A321XLR configuration includes 197 seats: 20 business class (recliners, no seatback entertainment) and 177 economy. Free Wi-Fi is provided. The flight time is approximately 8 hours 5 minutes northbound and 7 hours 55 minutes southbound. Key details for frequent flyers:

Sources cited · 1

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OMAAT↗
One Mile at a Time
Qantas A321XLR Makes International Debut, And Travelers Won’t Be Happy
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