Icelandair becomes Airbus operator with the A321LR

Hamburg, Germany, 3 December 2024 – Icelandair, based in Keflavik, has taken delivery of its first Airbus aircraft. The A321LR marks the first step in the airline’s fleet renewal making it the newest Airbus operator. The aircraft is the first of four to be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited. The airline will also take delivery of 13 A321XLRs.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, Icelandair’s A321LR comprises 187 seats in a two-class configuration (22 Business and 165 Economy Class seats). The aircraft’s Airspace cabin features XL bins, providing 60% more stowage space compared to previous generation aircraft for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew alike. In addition, Icelandair passengers will benefit from advanced gate to gate connectivity, next generation inflight entertainment and the latest lighting system enhancing well-being and the overall passenger experience on board.

The A321LR is ideally suited to transatlantic routes, providing extended range with an aircraft capable of flying routes up to 4,000 nautical miles. The A321LR’s  cutting-edge technology and advanced fuel efficiency delivers at least 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft. In addition, as with all Airbus aircraft, the A321neo aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), increasing to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030. Icelandair’s A321LR aircraft will support the airline's sustainability efforts, in regard to operational efficiency while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.

To date more than 6,700 A321neo have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe.