There are two main variations of the Airbus A321neo used by Philippine Airlines: the LR and the SR. So, what exactly is the distinction between the two? True, they are both A321neos powered by the PW1100G-JM turbofan engines. However, what makes them both different? The following details the distinctions between the two A321neo aircraft of PAL.
There is such a thing as the A321neo LR, however PAL’s “SR” designates an A321neo ACF. Just so the airline could easily recognize it, it was given the designation SR.
So, why does PAL have two distinct A321neo models? Instead of having a dedicated long-range (LR) and short-range (SR) model, why not just use the LR for both?
First off, there could be a number of factors at play.
Since the LRs are tailored for long flights like from Manila to Sydney non-stop, they include fully reclined business class seats that require more room. Second, more weight from additional passengers could limit where you can go in a plane. Hence, the PAL A321neo LR carries fewer passengers compared to their A321neo SR. Do not forget that Filipinos enjoy bringing large amounts of cargo, such as balikbayan boxes. In addition, the SR has more seats because its range isn’t an issue for regional and short-hop flights. Both the LR and the SR have two-class seating, but only the SR can fit 195 people.
So, how can you tell if you’re in an A321neo LR or SR? For those who are interested, we’ll start with the outside. Please view the attached images (XFW-Spotter):
How to tell the difference just by looking at them?
The PAL A321neo SR cockpit windshield has those “Raccoon eyes” similar to the Airbus A350 and A330neo whereas the LR doesn’t have any. What is the use of those “raccoon eyes”? It is an anti-glare paint feature.
The PAL A321neo SR has no second door on the fuselage; instead, it has two overwing emergency exits. The LR has a second door and a single overwing emergency exit. The SR’s door configuration is part of what Airbus calls ACF or Airbus Cabin Flex where more seats can be placed in this set-up.
Now let us go to the interior. Well, there are not many differences except that the SR fits 195 passengers and the LR fits 168. The biggest difference though is the business class seats.
The PAL A321neo SR business class seats do not recline completely flat, but they do recline comfortably enough for short flights. They are also not as enclosed and the IFE screens are not as wide as the LR’s.
The LR’s business class seats can incline to a full flat angle. They are also more enclosed and equipped with larger IFE screens as compared to the SR.
Everything else is basically the same, especially in terms of service, where all passengers receive the same “buong pusong alaga,” or wholehearted care, whether they fly the PAL A321neo SR or LR.
PAL is due to receive 13 more A321neo SRs. They now have two A321neo SRs and six LRs.
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