Iberia has taken delivery of its first A321XLR, becoming the launch operator of the world’s newest single-aisle aircraft.
The aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, will be operated by Iberia on a number of regional flights across the airline’s European network before its first transatlantic mission from Madrid to Boston later in November.
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, said: “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.”
The newly delivered A321XLR to Iberia seats 182 passengers in a two-class layout with lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access.
A game changer
The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step from the A320neo which responds to market needs for even more range and payload, creating more value for the airlines.
It will deliver an unprecedented Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm – 15% more range than the A321LR and with 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise.
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft.
So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the aircraft.
