by TMR / pic by MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

Spirit AeroSystems Inc has produced the first inboard wing flap in Malaysia for the new A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) at AeroSystems’ manufacturing facility in Subang, Selangor.

Spirit AeroSystems in Malaysia is the sole supplier producing inboard flaps for the A321XLR, which is a new long range version of the best-selling single aisle aircraft, the company noted in a statement yesterday.

The inboard flap is located along the trailing edge of the wings and helps secure greater lift during take-off and landing.

“With 14 local partners and suppliers in Malaysia, the country represents Airbus’ biggest supplier base in South-East Asia and is the fifth-largest supplier of Airbus composite parts worldwide.

Airbus is the largest partner for Malaysia’s aerospace industry. Other important partners include Spirit AeroSystems, Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd, SME Aerospace Sdn Bhd and Celestica Inc.

“Today, ‘Made in Malaysia’ parts are flying on almost all Airbus civil aircraft products (A320 Family, A330, A350, A380), as well as the A400M military transport and the H130 helicopter,” Spirit AeroSystems added.

“Our footprint in Malaysia reflects the importance we place on the country, not only as a strategic market, but also as a valued industrial partner, contributing to our extended global enterprise.

“We are fully committed to our ongoing presence in the country and this event marks another milestone in our journey together,” said Raymond Lim (picture), Airbus chief country representative Malaysia.

As at end of October 2021, Airbus has recorded a total of 435 orders for the A321XLR across 22 customers worldwide.

The A321XLR is currently under development and will enter service in 2023.

It will be the longest range single aisle aircraft ever and will be able to fly up to 4,700nm (8,700km) nonstop or for up to around ten hours.