Qantas has revealed its pick for the upcoming Airbus A321XLR lie-flat Business Class cabin – and it might prove to be a controversial choice. The airline has opted for a herringbone layout, which maximises capacity, but means that seats face the aisle.
The airline has also revealed updated Business Class suites for the Boeing 787, which will feature on the airline’s 12 upcoming deliveries. Here’s what we know so far.
Qantas’ Airbus A321XLR Business Class
Firstly, to Qantas’ first-ever lie-flat product on a narrowbody plane. The seats, which appear to be based on the Thompson Aero Vantage Solo, will tick many of the boxes. After all, lie-flat comfort will make a huge difference on the medium-haul international and transcontinental flights that it flies on.
Those specs include a fully lie-flat bed, sliding privacy doors, a large 19″ entertainment screen, wireless charging and more. It’s scheduled to arrive from 2028, on board 16 of Qantas’ upcoming A321XLRs. Perth-Singapore is tipped to be one of the initial international routes for the upgraded jet.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson says the new aircraft is said to be one of the most significant ways Qantas can enhance its flying experience.
“These new Suites on our next-generation narrowbody fleet are another step in that journey, transforming the premium cabin experience and the level of comfort for our customers flying on longer domestic and short- and medium-haul international services.”
However, feedback from passengers on other airlines – including American Airlines, which also has a similar layout on its A321XLRs – is mixed. Complaints include it being difficult to look out of the window, due to the herringbone layout. Crew has also noted that it can be difficult to conduct service with the entertainment screen and privacy doors in the way.
Qantas’ new Boeing 787 Business Class
Along with the Airbus A321XLR suites, Qantas has also announced an updated Business Suite for the Boeing 787s. Keeping the same 42-seat count, the new suites will offer a privacy door and a wider footwell. Also expect the latest mod-cons such as a larger 19″ entertainment screen.
Based on Thompson Aero’s VantageXL+ platform, the seat manufacturer describes the revised design as “further optimised specifically for the A350 and B787 platforms… re-sculpted surfaces for greater legroom and knee clearance.”
The new seats will debut on the upcoming tranche of 12 Qantas Boeing 787s, due to arrive sometime in 2028. What we don’t yet know is whether Premium Economy and Economy will receive a similar touch-up, and whether Qantas will refurbish its existing Boeing 787 fleet with the new seats at some point.
Also read: Qantas sets date for Points Club, Green Tier shutdown →
