Icelandair has today placed an order for 13 Airbus A321XLRs, becoming a new Airbus customer. The carrier also plans on leasing four Airbus A321LRs.
On Thursday (July 6, 2023), Airbus announced that Icelandair has become a new customer for the company with the order of 13 Airbus A321XLRs. Additionally, the airline plans on leasing four Airbus A321LRs. With its extra long range, the A321LXR will allow Icelandair to seize new market opportunities, while reducing operating costs and emissions in support of their sustainability targets. Customers will also benefit from exceptional cabin comfort.
In Thursday’s announcement, Icelandair’s CEO, Bogi Nils Bogason, said,
“We are very pleased to announce that we have now finalized the purchase agreement with Airbus. The efficient A321XLR aircraft will further strengthen our business model, increase our flexibility and provide opportunities for future growth, as well as further support our sustainability efforts. The first aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2029 but we plan to have four Airbus aircraft in operation before summer of 2025 and have now secured the lease of new A321LR aircraft with our long-term partner SMBC Aviation Capital Limited.”
Also commenting on the new Icelandair order, Airbus’ Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International, Christian Scherer, said,
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Icelandair for placing their trust and confidence in Airbus. It fills us with immense pride to welcome Icelandair as a new Airbus customer. By harnessing the exceptional performance of the A321XLR, your airline is forging a path of sustainable growth with remarkable efficiency and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.”
The Airbus A321XLR is the next revolutionary step from the A320neo, delivering more range, capacity and value for airlines. The aircraft delivers an ‘Xtra Long Range’ of up to 4,700 nautical miles, around 15 percent more range than the A321LR, plus a reduced fuel burn of 30 percent versus previous generation competitor aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft offers a reduced noise footprint and NOx emissions. Passengers will also enjoy the new Airspace cabin, which offers a superior travel experience, with seats in all classes similar to that of a widebody long-haul aircraft. At the end of May 2023, the A320neo Family had won over 8,750 orders from 136 customers worldwide.
Source: Airbus