Aer Lingus is understood to be the launch customer of Airbus’ newest aircraft, the A321XLR.
The ‘XLR’ in the model’s title stands for (E)xtra Long Range – and it will be able to fly up to 4,700 nautical miles, which is about 5,400 standard miles.
The new plane will also cater for between up to 220 passengers and burn 30% less fuel.
Airbus has postponed the roll-out of the new aircraft until the third quarter of this year.
Airline group IAG – which owns Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling – has previously confirmed that Aer Lingus and Iberia have orders logged with Airbus for the new jet in order to upgrade and modernise their long haul fleets.
Now, it has been reported that Aer Lingus’ EI flight code has been included in the first A321XLR airframe off the factory floor in Hamburg. The first commercially-ready jet also, reportedly, includes the Aer Lingus livery.
It is understood Aer Lingus has 6 of the new planes on order. Iberia apparently has 8, while IAG’s total order includes options for 14 more of the planes.
