Over the summer, Iberia received its first Airbus A321XLR from an order for a total of 8 aircraft, which are due to join the fleet in 2025 and 2026. The Spanish airline is the first in the world to receive this type of aircraft. This version of the Airbus A321 can cover distances of more than 8,000 km, offering a configuration of 180 to 220 seats depending on the model. Above all, it offers lower fuel consumption of 30% per seat, compared with wide-body aircraft on intercontinental routes.
The configuration of the Airbus A321XLR on Iberia will have a 14-seat business cabin and 168 seats in economy class. Iberia promises on-board comfort similar to - or even better than - that of the Airbus A330s. Business class is equipped with sleeper seats, a large-screen video, individual lighting and a private storage compartment. Economy class has new Recaro seats, complete with several USB chargers. The cabin baggage compartments are also larger. All passengers can also connect their own headphones via Bluetooth.
The new aircraft will enter service on 14 November on the Madrid-Boston with three flights a week, a fourth flight remaining on an Airbus A330. The frequency will become daily from December 15. From 15 January, Washington will be added to the Madrid route, with six flights a week. However, the service between the two capitals will cease on 26 October, until the A321XLR enters service. Iberia promises that other destinations in the Americas will follow with the arrival of additional aircraft.
