Spanish flag carrier 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.
“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.”
Marco Sansavini, CEO & Chairman at Iberia
"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.”
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus
The newly delivered A321XLR to Iberia seats 182 passengers in a two-class layout with lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access. Boasting the new Airspace cabin, the aircraft will provide passengers with long haul comfort in all classes.
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft. 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.
Iberia A321XLR Paris Debut on 5 Nov 2024
According to Aeroroutes, the inaugural date is now scheduled on 05NOV24 on Madrid – Paris Charles de Gaulle route.
Planned A321XLR service to Paris between 05NOV24 and 13NOV24 as follows.
IB585/586 05NOV24, 13NOV24
IB589/590 05NOV24, 06NOV24, 09NOV24, 10NOV24, 12NOV24
Riyadh Air Orders 60 Airbus A321neo
Riyadh Air has ordered 60 Airbus A321neos as part of its fleet mix to fulfill its network ambitions of 100 destinations by 2030. The order takes Riyadh Air’s commitments to 132 aircraft on order with last year's buy of Boeing 787s.
The deal was confirmed with a signing in Riyadh today between Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, and Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft of Airbus.
His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, PIF Governor and Chairman of Riyadh Air, said: “We are pleased to embark on another key milestone in Riyadh Air’s journey with the carrier’s second major fleet order, this time in partnership with Airbus. This deal underlines the airline’s ambitious intentions in advance of next year’s launch as it builds a comprehensive international network and establishes Riyadh as a major strategic global aviation hub.”
“This order will not only enable us to support economic growth in the aviation industry, it will also ensure Riyadh Air operates one of the most sustainable fleets in the industry and be instrumental in helping Saudi Arabia achieve its net-zero emissions goals. This deal strongly reinforces the positive economic impact of Saudi Arabia’s newest airline on both a global and local scale and helps facilitate the fast-growing local aviation ecosystem.”
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air
"We are proud to welcome Riyadh Air as a new Airbus customer and to be a part of its exciting journey. The latest generation A321neo aircraft, will bring exceptional efficiency to the airline's operations and comfort to its passengers. We look forward to working together to support the incredible growth of Saudi aviation."
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft Airbus
Riyadh Air aims to be a leading airline and will equip its fleet with the latest and most advanced digital features, providing an innovative guest experience that is the best in class in terms of aircraft cabin interior design, in addition to the latest generation of entertainment and connectivity systems on board.