Icelandair takes delivery o
Icelandair takes delivery of first Airbus aircraft in airline's history
On December 3rd 2024, Icelandair took delivery of the first Airbus aircraft in the airline's 87-year history, becoming the newest Airbus operator. The A321LR aircraft is the first of three scheduled for delivery before summer 2025. Leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited, the delivery is part of the airline's fleet renewal program.
The A321LR will be the successor of Icelandair's Boeing 757, which has been the backbone of the airline's fleet for decades. The aircraft will seat 187 passengers, 22 in Saga Premium and 165 in Economy. Coupled with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, the A321LR will have a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 kilometers), allowing the aircraft to operate to all destinations in the Icelandair network previously served by the B757.
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 compared to previous generation aircraft.
Bogi Nils Bogason, Icelandair President and CEO:
"The delivery of the first Airbus is a significant milestone in Icelandair's 87-year history, and we look forward to welcoming our passengers on board later this month. The aircraft will unleash new opportunities for our great company, and for Iceland as a destination and hub between continents. The efficient A321 will further strengthen our business model, increase our flexibility and further support our sustainability efforts."
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer: "We are proud to see Icelandair's colours on an Airbus aircraft. The A321LR offers a 30% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per trip compared to previous-generation competition aircraft, as well as significantly lower noise levels. This milestone delivery is therefore a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation.
We value the trust Icelandair has placed in Airbus and look forward to supporting their continued success as they further contribute to Iceland's economic growth."