The delivery of the first A321 XLR is a huge milestone for European aircraft manufacturer Airbus. After the type had received its certification a few weeks back,the carrier worked hard on getting the first XLR to customer Iberia. With its extended range, the A321 XLR is ought to become one of the most important aircraft for Airbus, as competitor Boeing does not have a comparable aircraft for this market sector.
Iberia will test the aircraft on inter-European routes to and from Madrid, before sending the XLR on transatlantic routes to the U.S.-east coast. Boston will be served later in November, the manufacturer stated.
Marco Sansavini, CEO & Chairman at Iberia, 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.”
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, added: “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 A321XLR can accommodate 182 passengers in a tow-class configuration including lie-flat business class seats. Regarding the new aircraft type, Airbus stated, that 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. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the aircraft.
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% SAF. Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.
