Copyright
1998-2001 Dragon Models Limited. All Rights Reserved.
By
retaining most of the A320 features and extending the fuselage both forward
and aft of the wing, Airbus proposed the A320 'stretch', which in June 1989
became the A321. Several modifications were needed to the original design. These
included a stronger undercarriage and centre section, a simplified fuel system,
and revisions to the wing, allowing the flight characteristics of the A321 to
match the A320. First A321 flight was in March 1993 and the launch customers
were Lufthansa and Alitalia. Swissair, the reputable Swiss flag carrier, holds
the distinction of operating all three types in the A320 family of aircraft
(A319, A320 and A321), chosen to replace their fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-80s
on inter-European routes. We pride ourselves in releasing the A321 in Swissair's
revised colors (with the blue base) for our most valued collectors.
