Spanish flag carrier Iberia has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR as launch customer for world’s newest single-aisle airliner.
The handover ceremony took place in Hamburg, Germany before the aircraft was ferried to Madrid.
Iberia will use the A321XLR on a number of regional routes before it starts its transatlantic life operating from Madrid to Boston.
Iberia has configured the aircraft in a two-class 182 seat configuration including flat bed seats in the business class cabin.
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.”
The Airbus A321XLR has a range of up to 4,700nm and offers best in class efficiency with a 30% lower fuel burn compared to aircraft previously operating in this sector.