China Airlines Takes Delivery of First Airbus A321neo Aircraft

(30 Nov 2021)  China Airlines took delivery of its first Airbus A321neo aircraft on Monday.

The brand new A321neo has 180 seats in a two class configuration, with 12 seats in Premium Business Class and 168 seats in Economy Class.

The single aisle aircraft is the first to feature fully-flat Premium Business Class seats that were originally developed for widebody passenger aircraft.

The aircraft also features smart link support that enables passengers to connect to the in-flight entertainment system via their personal mobile phone and Bluetooth headphones.

China Airlines' brand new A321neo features fully-flat Premium Business Class seats that were originally developed for widebody passenger aircraft

The 15.6” and 13.3” 4K high-resolution, extra-large displays in Premium Business and Economy Class offer picture-in-picture multi-processing functionality so that passengers can access the flight map, catering and other services at the same time.

High-speed in-flight Wi-Fi service is also provided onboard the aircraft. Free text messaging is available for the following 7 apps: Line, WeChat, Facebook Messenger, Apple iMessage, WhatsApp, Viber and Line2.

Other internet access options that passengers can pay for via credit card or redeem in full with their membership miles include streaming multimedia, browsing the web and catching up on their favorite shows via their personal mobile devices while in-flight.

Non-Dynasty members can also join the “Dynasty Flyer Program” through the dedicated sign-up page onboard the aircraft.

Thoughtful touches in the lavatory include contactless, sensor-activated taps to reduce the risk of cross-infection, while in the cabin the HEPA high-efficiency air filtration system replaces the air every 2 to 3 minutes to ensure a clean and safe trip.

Cargo, SAF and Regional Routes

The Cargo Loading System specified for the belly hold of the A321neo uses pallet containers for more efficient cargo handling, shorter transit stops, as well as to protect cargo and passenger luggage.

The system means large cargo can be carried and handled easily. The belly hold can be configured for bulk cargo as well for greater flexibility depending on local airport requirements.

The new A321neo aircraft is expected to provide 10 to 20% more cargo capacity and provide a valuable boost to China Airlines’ current emphasis on cargo operations.

China Airlines arranged for its new aircraft to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on the ferry flight back to Taiwan.

Once in Taiwan, the new A321neo aircraft will first go through the preparation and certification process before being progressively introduced on Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and Cross-strait routes. The Airbus A321neo is expected to become China Airlines’ mainstay on regional routes.