Iberia Receives First Airbus A321XLR, Expanding Fleet Capabilities

Iberia, Spain’s flag carrier, has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the global launch operator for this new extended-range single-aisle aircraft. Powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, the A321XLR promises operational efficiencies with 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft. Iberia will initially operate the A321XLR on European routes before launching transatlantic flights from Madrid to Boston later in November. This model’s capacity to reach up to 4,700 nautical miles enables Iberia to expand into long-haul markets typically serviced by widebody aircraft, marking a new chapter for narrowbody fleets in long-haul connectivity.