Airbus A220 – Increased Seating Capacity
Airbus continues to optimize the A220’s capabilities to improve its market competitiveness. The A220 160-seat configuration, evolving from the existing A220-300 variant certified for up to 149 passengers, is actively undergoing certification by Airbus.
This initiative, driven by considerable demand from airline operators seeking enhanced operational efficiency, will require Airbus to modify the aircraft’s structure. Specifically, a second overwing emergency exit will be introduced to meet stringent evacuation safety regulations, ensuring the A220 160-seat configuration remains compliant even as passenger capacity increases.
Complementing this increased passenger load, Airbus is enhancing the overall efficiency of its aircraft. Pratt & Whitney has significantly improved the PW1500G engines, resolving most of the previous operational reliability challenges. A new climb-derate functionality, similar to one employed on the A320neo, is also being integrated. This feature will optimize engine lifespan, providing robust climb performance when necessary but preserving engine health and extending operational intervals.
Airbus has further plans to boost operational practicality, including faster engine start capabilities at airport gates using dual-engine motoring, scheduled for introduction shortly. Additionally, a new cabin interior offering larger overhead storage compartments will debut in 2026, with Air Canada set to be the inaugural customer.
Another innovation, the Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS), will enhance flight safety, with deployment expected in the same timeframe.
Together, these enhancements will enable the A220-300 to meet evolving airline needs more effectively, increasing its appeal through greater passenger capacity and improved operational economics.
Details on the A220 enhancements are according to a report published by FlightGlobal.
For more on the potential development of the A220, explore whether the Airbus A220-500 can succeed without a new wing in this detailed analysis from Fliegerfaust.