American Airlines’ First Airbus A321XLR Flight Now on Sale, Flying Between New York and L.A. in December

Updated: October 23, 2025, 1:07pm CDT

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American’s Long-Delayed A321XLR Finally Takes Flight
How To Book the Inaugural A321XLR Flight
Final Thoughts

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American Airlines just made aviation history — and you can book a seat on it. The carrier has become the first U.S. airline to take delivery of the Airbus A321XLR, marking the beginning of a new era in long-range narrow-body travel.

Now, the airline has revealed where its A321XLR will make its debut and what travelers can expect.

This flight is now on sale to fly in December. It’s not cheap, though.

American’s Long-Delayed A321XLR Finally Takes Flight

American Airlines originally planned to begin taking delivery of the A321XLR in 2023, with 8 aircraft that year, followed by 20 in 2024 and another 20 in 2025. But certification delays at Airbus pushed everything back nearly 2 years.

Now, AA has received its first A321XLR, and it’s ready for service — starting not on a transatlantic route but on American’s flagship New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX) transcontinental route.

The narrow-body aircraft features a 3-cabin layout designed to feel more premium than ever:

20 lie-flat business class suites in the airline’s new Flagship Business design
12 premium economy seats with enhanced recline and service
A refreshed main cabin with new lighting and modern finishes

American Airlines A321XLR Business Class — American’s A321XLR will feature the airline’s newest Flagship Suites business class. Image Credit: American Airlines

The aircraft’s extended range will eventually allow American to launch new routes to Europe and Latin America from smaller U.S. cities. That’s after it first stretches its wings on home turf.

How To Book the Inaugural A321XLR Flight

American has officially opened bookings for its first Airbus A321XLR flight, launching the aircraft’s debut service on December 18, 2025, as AA Flight 3 from New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX).

Right now, economy fares start at around $559 one-way, while business class tickets reach up to $3,376.

Screenshot — You’ll want to look for the aircraft type and make sure it’s the A321XLR to experience the new product. It’s more expensive than flights with other aircraft, though. Image Credit: American Airlines

For those looking to redeem AAdvantage miles, AAdvantage award space is currently only available in economy, starting at 49,000 miles plus $5.60 in taxes and fees.

As of now, there’s no business class award availability — and that’s not surprising. Inaugural flights like this tend to have very limited premium cabin award space, as airlines often reserve those seats for media, VIPs, or paying customers. Still, it’s worth checking back periodically, since American could release a few last-minute award seats closer to departure.

Hot Tip:

If you don’t need to be on the inaugural flight, consider booking the same route for a later date to experience the new A321XLR once it begins regular service. Just be sure to double-check the aircraft type when booking. American still operates other A321 variants on this route, and you’ll want to make sure you’re actually getting the new jet.

Final Thoughts

American’s A321XLR debut on December 18 marks a major milestone for U.S. aviation. The aircraft combines long-haul range with the comfort of a widebody in a single-aisle design — perfect for both transcontinental and future international routes.

Whether you’re chasing the excitement of the inaugural flight or waiting to try it later, the A321XLR will provide a sleek, more comfortable future for American’s premium travelers.