The Airbus A321XLR: Development, Certification and Delivery
The Airbus A321XLR: Development, Certification and Delivery
Date: Thursday, 12 November 2026
Time: 6.30pm
Location: Room 259, TU Dublin, Bolton Street, Dublin 1, DO1 K822, and online via Zoom
Places are limited. Advance booking is required.
Event overview
Join Gary O’Donnell, Airbus executive and former Head of the A321XLR Programme, for an insight into the development of one of the aviation industry's most significant recent innovations: the Airbus A321XLR.
In this presentation, Gary will trace the A321XLR programme from its inception through development and certification to the delivery of the first aircraft. Drawing on his first-hand experience leading the programme, he will offer a unique perspective on the engineering, technical challenges and achievements behind the aircraft.
The presentation will also feature an Airbus interactive app, allowing attendees to explore the A321XLR in 3D and discover areas of the aircraft that passengers rarely, if ever, get to see, but which are fundamental to its design and operation.
The Airbus A321XLR builds on the successful A321neo platform, extending the range of single-aisle aircraft through structural reinforcements, increased fuel capacity and performance enhancements. Its permanent rear centre tank, strengthened landing gear and optimised wing flap design enable it to undertake significantly longer routes while maintaining the operational performance of a narrowbody aircraft.
The A321XLR is transforming long-haul aviation, demonstrating how single-aisle aircraft can operate routes traditionally served by widebody jets.
The aircraft is also set to play an important role in Irish aviation. United Airlines will introduce the A321XLR on international flights to Dublin in December 2026, while Air Canada plans to operate the aircraft on its Toronto–Shannon route from June 2027.
About the presenter
Gary O’Donnell graduated in Mechanical Engineering from Ulster University and joined Airbus 29 years ago as a Manufacturing Engineer. During his career with Airbus, he has held a number of senior programme and engineering roles, including Head of the A350-800 Wing Programme, Head of A350WXB Wing Industrialisation, Head of A320neo Wing Developments and Project Leader for the ACJ320neo Project. In 2019, Gary was appointed Head of the A321XLR Programme, leading the aircraft through its development, certification and initial delivery phases. His extensive experience offers attendees a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the key figures behind the development of the A321XLR.
Registration
Attendance is available both in person at TU Dublin Bolton Street and online via Zoom.
Places are limited and advance registration is essential.
Contact
For further information, please contact:
Máirín Ní Aonghusa
Engineers Ireland
Telephone: 087 240 5188
Email: mairin@engineersireland.ie