European regulators may seek to impose design changes to the Airbus A321XLR – source

European aviation regulators are considering imposing significant changes to the design of the “underbody fairings” of the future Airbus A321XLR, which raises the possibility of a delay in its introduction, said a senior industry source.

This measure aims to mitigate the risk of fire linked to a new central fuel tank. Bloomberg News had reported that the design changes could also reduce the plane’s range.

An Airbus spokesperson said the company was in talks with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) about certification requirements.

Airbus said the upgraded A321XLR, its longest-range single-aisle model, will enter service at the end of 2023.

“A321XLR certification is an ongoing project. The full set of requirements for the installation of the aft center fuel tanks is still being defined, and when ready, will be posted for comment on the website. EASA in accordance with applicable regulations,” an EASA spokesperson said. (Reporting by Tim Hepher; editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)