The A321XLR, Airbus’ ultra-long-range twin-engine narrow-body aircraft, will make its debut long-haul flight on November 14, according to data on the Iberia website.
The Spanish airline will be the launch customer for the jet that will debut on flight IB 347 between Madrid and Boston, initially with three to four weekly frequencies, according to Aeroroutes.
Iberia is expected to receive the first A321XLR in the third quarter. The aircraft is in the final stages of type certification campaign with EASA, European civil aviation authority, and should be approved for commercial flights soon.
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Iberia’s A321XLR will be configured with just 182 seats although it can carry up to 244 passengers. There will be 14 seats in Business class (rows with 1+1 seats) and 168 in economy.
The second destination for Iberia’s A321XLR will be Washington (Dulles), also from Madrid (Barajs). The flight to be operated six times a week is being sold from January 15, 2025.
Eight A321XLR
The aircraft’s range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km) will allow it to replace widebodies on transoceanic routes with 30% less fuel consumption.
The distance between the capital of Spain and Boston is about 3,000 nautical miles (5,500 km) while Madrid and Washington are separated by 3,300 nautical miles (just over 6,000 km).
Therefore, both destinations are easily within the range of the A321XLR, which will certainly offer a much lower operating cost than other Iberia aircraft.
Although the debut on long-haul flights is scheduled for Boston in November, Iberia will place the A321XLR on medium-haul routes to familiarize crew and ground staff.
The Spanish airline, belonging to the IAG Group, is expected to have eight A321XLRs in its fleet, out of a general order for 14 aircraft – another six jets will go to Aer Lingus.
