Iberia is making aviation history by becoming the first airline in the world to operate transatlantic routes with the new Airbus A321XLR.
This groundbreaking flight departs from Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport on November 14 at 12:35 PM, bound for Boston Logan International Airport. Scheduled to land at 3:20 PM local time, this flight marks a significant milestone in long-haul travel, demonstrating the capabilities of narrow-body aircraft on extended routes.
The A321XLR, known for its impressive range of up to 7,500 kilometers, combines the efficiency of a narrow-body jet with the comfort and amenities typical of larger aircraft. This fuel-efficient model boasts a 40% reduction in fuel consumption compared to wide-body alternatives, positioning it as one of the most eco-friendly choices for transatlantic travel. Iberia’s fleet will include a total of eight A321XLRs, enhancing the airline’s ability to expand its long-haul network and increase capacity on current routes.
Equipped with the latest Airspace cabin design, the A321XLR offers 182 seats across Business and Economy classes. Business travelers can enjoy full-flat seats with direct aisle access, an 18.5-inch 4K resolution screen, and personal lighting systems, creating an ideal space for relaxation or productivity. Economy passengers benefit from ergonomically designed seats that offer a four-inch recline, adjustable headrests, and 12-inch 4K screens. All seats include Bluetooth connectivity for personal headphones and USB charging ports for added convenience.
The A321XLR’s spacious overhead bins provide 60% more room for carry-on luggage, and six customizable lighting modes in the cabin enhance passenger comfort. With free in-flight messaging Wi-Fi, travelers can stay connected throughout their journey.
Marco Sansavini, Iberia’s President, expressed his pride in leading this industry advancement, stating, “We are thrilled to be the first airline to launch the A321XLR on transatlantic routes. This new aircraft model allows us to reinforce our network and explore new destinations with efficiency and comfort for our customers.”
Airbus Commercial Aircraft CEO Christian Scherer highlighted the significance of this launch, noting, “Seeing the A321XLR embark on its first transatlantic flight with Iberia is a landmark achievement. Routes like Madrid-Boston showcase the strategic value of the A321XLR in long-haul markets, providing unmatched passenger comfort in its Airspace cabin.”
Since its delivery on October 30, the A321XLR has undergone regional flights to Paris and Stockholm as part of its initial operations. Iberia’s additional seven A321XLRs will enable the airline to consider new long-haul destinations while also increasing capacity on popular routes, particularly in the Americas.
The A321XLR’s innovative features include structural and aerodynamic enhancements, advanced CFM LEAP-1A engines, and an integrated central fuel tank, extending its range to 4,000 nautical miles. This aircraft sets a new standard for fuel efficiency and passenger comfort in long-haul travel, positioning Iberia at the forefront of sustainable aviation.
As Iberia’s latest addition to its long-haul fleet, the A321XLR aligns with the airline’s strategy to offer modern, comfortable, and environmentally conscious travel options. With plans to expand its transatlantic routes, Iberia is poised to set new benchmarks in both efficiency and customer experience.
