It’s finally here – the biggest change to Qantas’ domestic fleet in decades. The new A321XLR has joined the national carrier with its first commercial flight, and with 48 on order to replace the ageing 737-800s, it’s the most ambitious phase yet in the airline’s massive fleet renewal program.

With a wider body, more fuel-efficient engines, and a slew of other changes, the A321XLR is a massive leap for the Flying Kangaroo – but does it live up to the hype, and what’s being done about the delicate issue of the toilets?

On this week’s podcast, Jake has a full trip report of the inaugural flight of the Qantas A321XLR, and he and David discuss what it will do for the airline both domestically and internationally.

Plus, Qantas looks to improve its battered reputation by making it a condition of CEO Vanessa Hudson’s bonuses: will it work, or is it just a PR stunt?