Iberia, the Spanish flag airline, has received delivery of its first A321XLR, making it the first operator of the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft.
Iberia will use the aircraft, which is powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, on a series of regional flights across its European network before its first transatlantic voyage from Madrid to Boston later in November.
Marco Sansavini, CEO and Chairman of Iberia, stated, “We are really happy to be the launch carrier for this new Airbus aircraft. The A321XLR will enable us to access new locations while running transoceanic trips more efficiently.
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, stated: “After five years of development, the newest member of the Airbus family is ready to join its first operator, Iberia. The A321XLR will allow for many additional nonstop destinations, ushering in a new era of air travel connection. It is again another proud “first” for all of us at Airbus in our ongoing effort to innovate and provide value to our customers. We are delighted to share this wonderful event with a special customer: thank you and congratulations, Iberia.”
Iberia’s recently arrived A321XLR has 182 seats in two classes, including lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access. The aircraft’s redesigned Airspace interior will give passengers with long-haul comfort in all classes.
The XL bins have 60% more luggage capacity, resulting in a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and crew. In addition, in-seat connection is accessible at all seats, and the latest lighting system improves the entire passenger experience.
The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step beyond the A320neo, responding to market demands for increased range and payload, resulting in greater value for airlines. It will provide an unprecedented Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm, 15% greater range than the A321LR, 30% less fuel burn per seat than previous generation rival aircraft, and fewer NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has received over 500 orders for the aircraft.
In June 2022, the first A321XLR made its maiden flight. This was followed by a comprehensive testing program comprising three test aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR can already operate at up to 50% SAF. Airbus intends to bring its aircraft up to 100% SAF capability by 2030.
First Flights
On November 5, Iberia plans to launch A321XLR flights from its Madrid hub to Paris Charles de Gaulle. Aeroroutes reports that these flights will operate on multiple days in early November.
Later, the Spanish carrier will expand the aircraft’s range by offering transatlantic service between Madrid and Boston beginning November 14.
In January 2025, the airplane will fly the almost 4,000-mile route from Madrid to Washington Dulles.
What to Expect From the New Aircraft
Iberia is outfitting the Airbus A321XLR as a long-haul narrowbody aircraft. While regular A321s can accommodate up to 232 passengers in a totally 3-3 layout, the XLR will feature a 1-1 layout with 14 lie-flat seats in the front of the aircraft, followed by 168 economy seats in the traditional 3-3 pattern behind the bulkhead.
According to our colleagues at Head For Points, Iberia chose Thompson Aero Seating’s VantageSOLO seat. JetBlue’s transatlantic business class seats are identical to this one. The cabin now features XL overhead bins, which increase luggage capacity by more than half.
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