Icelandair has taken delivery of the first Airbus aircraft in its 87-year history.
The aircraft is the first of four A321LRs for the airline. Icelandair has also ordered 13 A321XLRs.
Leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited, the delivery is part of the airline’s fleet renewal program.
The A321LR is the successor of Icelandair’s Boeing 757, which has been the backbone of the airline’s fleet for decades. Icelandair’s A321LR seats 187 passengers in two classes, similar to the 757s.
Why the Airbus A321LR?
The Airbus A321LR is a long-range variant of the A320neo aircraft that enables extended range and payload.
The A321LR is also expected to be up to 30% more fuel efficient than the B757, supporting the airline’s sustainability efforts, regarding operational efficiency, CO₂ reductions and reduced noise footprint.
To date, more than 6,700 A321neo have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe.
Long-range routes
Icelanair’s A321LRs use Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, enabling the A321LR to have a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 kilometres).
This allows the aircraft to operate to all destinations in the Icelandair network previously served by the B757, including destinations on the US West Coast.
Reduce fuel and emissions
The A321LR offers significant fuel and emission reduction savings compared to previous-generation single-aisle aircraft.
In addition, as with all Airbus aircraft, the A321neo aircraft can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), increasing to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030.
Benefits for passengers
Cabin layout
Icelandair’s A321LR will seat 187 passengers in two classes, 4 more than the the 757s:
- 22 in Saga Premium in a 2-2 layout
- 165 in Economy in a 3-3 layout
Airspace cabin with XL bins
The aircraft’s Airspace cabin features XL bins, providing 60% more stowage space compared to previous generation aircraft.
Gate to gate wifi
Satellite connectivity service provides a high-quality, fast online experience on all routes, including streaming entertainment, and real-time productivity tools, keeping passengers and crew connected throughout the flight.
Inflight entertainment (IFE)
Passengers can enjoy 4K OLED displays, bluetooth connection and fast USB charging.
Icelandair is the launch customer of the Astrova in-flight entertainment system from Panasonic Avionics.
N.B. Economy passengers pay for Wi-Fi. 24 euros on a flight from Iceland to the USA flight.
Suppliers
The A321LR is from Airbus.
It is leased from Irish-based SMBC Aviation.
The seats are from Italian-company Geven.
IFE is from Panasonic Avionics.
