Airbus marked a significant milestone with the first intercontinental flight of its A321XLR, the latest addition to its narrowbody family. On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the aircraft, EC-OIL, operated flight IB347 from Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) in Spain to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in the United States, demonstrating its efficiency and versatility.
Iberia (IB/IBE) took delivery of the first production A321XLR on October 30, 2024, and the carrier plans to introduce a further 7 aircraft over the coming months.
The A321XLR, short for “Extra Long Range,” has been designed to meet the growing demand for longer routes using narrowbody aircraft. It offers a maximum range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, far exceeding the Madrid-Boston flight distance of approximately 3,000 nautical miles. While the flight highlighted the aircraft’s operational capabilities, it’s worth noting that this journey could have been completed by other narrowbody aircraft, underscoring that the XLR’s full range was not tested on this occasion.
Departing from Madrid, the flight showcased advanced technology, including next-generation engines and aerodynamic refinements. These features enhance operational efficiency and align with the aviation industry’s sustainability goals by reducing emissions and fuel consumption. The XLR is advertised as being around 30% more efficient than comparable widebody aircraft on select routes.
This milestone marks a pivotal step for Airbus as it continues to innovate and expand the potential of narrowbody aircraft. The A321XLR is expected to enter wider service with airlines throughout 2025, bringing new opportunities to connect distant destinations more efficiently. For passengers, this promises an era of travel with more direct and sustainable route options traditionally served by larger jets.
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Cover photo: Enrique Rubira, JetPhotos
