Airbus has today announced that Iberia has taken delivery of their first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the launch operator for the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft.
On Wednesday (October 30, 2024), Airbus announced that Iberia has taken delivery of their first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the launch operator of the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft. The new aircraft is powered by CFM LEAP-1A and will initially be deployed on Iberia’s European network, before its first transatlantic flight with service between Madrid and Boston in November.
In Wednesday’s announcement, Iberia’s Chairman and CEO, Marco Sansavini, said,
“We are very proud to be the launch airline for this new Airbus aircraft. The A321XLR will allow us to reach new destinations, operating transoceanic routes and doing so in a more efficient way.”
Also commenting on the milestone delivery, Airbus Commercial Aircraft’s CEO, Christian Scherer, said,
“Five years in the making, the newest member of the Airbus family is all set to join its first operator, Iberia. The A321XLR will enable countless new non-stop destinations; it truly opens a new chapter in air connectivity. It is another proud “first” for all of us at Airbus in our constant quest to innovate and bring value to our customers. We are pleased to share this special moment with a special customer: gracias y felicidades Iberia.”
Iberia’s new A321XLR seats 182 passengers in a two-class configuration, including lie-flat Business Class seats with direct aisle access. The aircraft also features the new Airspace cabin with XL overhead bins providing 60 percent more luggage capacity, and the latest lighting system. Additionally, guests will enjoy in-seat connectivity at every seat.
The next evolutionary step from the A320neo, the A321XLR offers more range and payload capacity, delivering an ‘Xtra Long Range’ of up to 4,700 nautical miles, 15 percent more than the A321LR. Additionally, the aircraft delivers a 30 percent reduction in fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as a smaller noise footprint and reduced NOx emissions. The first Airbus A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022, which was followed by a comprehensive test program involving three test aircraft. To date, Airbus has secured over 500 A321XLR orders.
Source: Airbus
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