Iberia is making history, becoming the very first airline to operate a commercial transatlantic flight with an Airbus A321XLR.
Flight IB347 departed Madrid (MAD) at 1:30 p.m. local time destined to Boston (BOS) with an estimated touch down time of 2:12 p.m. local time. The flight is being operated by Iberia’s first Airbus A321XLR registered EC-OIL, and is the first of eight to be delivered to the Spanish airline.
In a pre-launch statement, Marco Sansavini, President of Iberia said:
“We are very proud to be the first airline in the world to start flying with the A321XLR. This is a real milestone in the aviation industry. This new aircraft model allows us to strengthen our network and fly to new destinations in an efficient and comfortable way for all our customers.”
Prior to this, the airline was busy performing familiarization flights between Madrid and nearby cities including Paris, Stockholm and Barcelona.
On paper, Iberia’s A321XLRs have a potential range of 4,000 nautical miles (7,500 kilometers), which is 15% more range than what is offered on their A321LRs. The CFM LEAP-1A-power aircraft can travel a bit farther thanks to its integrated central fuel tank.
Credit: IberiaThe aircraft is equipped with 182 seats, with 14 in business class and 168 in economy. The lie-flat, aisle-facing business class seats offer amenities such as an 18.5-inch IFE display, independently controlled lighting system, AC, USB-A and USB-C power outlets, Bluetooth connectivity and free headphones to use during flight. These seats are split between seven rows in a 2-2 config.
Economy features RECARO L3810 seats in the typical 3-3 fashion, and weighs two kilograms less than the option featured on their 321LRs. Economy customers have smaller 12-inch IFE screens with USB-A and USB-C power outlets, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Guests also have access to onboard Wi-Fi, with free messaging.
Credit: IberiaSo far Iberia will operate its A321XLR between Madrid and Boston three times weekly on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with increased frequency starting in late December. From January 15, 2025, they will add flights from Madrid to Washington (IAD), flying everyday except Tuesdays.
Featured image: Iberia
