American Airlines Launches Airbus A321XLR Seasonal Flights New York Edinburgh 2026

American Airlines is set to launch its first international route using the new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, operating seasonal nonstop flights between New York JFK and Edinburgh, Scotland, starting March 8, 2026, through October 24, 2026. This route complements American's existing Philadelphia–Edinburgh service and marks the airline as the first U.S. carrier to operate the A321XLR, which offers an extended range of up to 11 hours and a premium three-class cabin layout including 20 Flagship Suite seats, 12 Premium Economy seats, and 123 Main Cabin seats, all equipped with modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi and seatback entertainment. The A321XLR's introduction allows American Airlines to open new transatlantic routes with greater efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort, featuring lie-flat beds and curated meals in premium cabins. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to grow American’s European network with seven new transatlantic routes planned for summer 2026, including new services to Budapest and Prague. The New York-Edinburgh route will initially operate seasonally and represents a new chapter in connecting the U.S. East Coast to Scotland, providing travelers with more direct access to this popular destination. Tickets will go on sale in November 2025, with the A321XLR entering domestic service between New York and Los Angeles in December 2025 before commencing international operations in March 2026.