Airbus to increase the number seats in A320 and A321

Airbus is planning to raise seating on the A320 from 180 to 186 seats. The A321 seat number is also getting from the current 220 seats to 240.

Airbus earlier in April had said that the 186 limit was “one of the things we are looking at amongst others.” However, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) confirmed that the process for this significant modification has started.

Present Maximum Seat configuration of A320

Maximum Seat configuration of B737-800

Space Flex- New lavatory and rear galley concept

This decision on the increase of the number of seats is being majorly influenced by Boeing 737-800 which provides 189 seats. 

Previously, as part of the Spaceflex concept, Airbus provided airlines with an option to move the rear lavatories to immediately in front of the rear pressure bulkhead if they accept a smaller galley, which allows the installation of another row of seats.

Smart Lav- New streamlined lavatory
design for airbus  narrow bodies

 

The move was triggered by Airbus’ win of the Vueling fleet order last August. The low-cost carrier, a subsidiary of International Airlines Group (IAG), placed a firm order for 30 A320s and 32 A320neos. The deal also included options for 58 more aircraft that could go to Vueling and an additional 100 A320neos that could end up at any of the IAG Group’s carriers. One key element for Airbus to be able to win the Vueling order was the promise to fit 186 seats in the cabin. Airbus has done some significant interior redesign work since then.