Aer Lingus Becomes The Latest Recipient Of The A321XLR

The flag carrier of Ireland, Aer Lingus, has become the newest recipient of the Airbus’ latest single-aisle commercial airliner, the A321XLR. The airline has received the first of six A321XLRs on order. The aircraft in question took off from Airbus’ production facility in Hamburg, Germany, on December 18, 2024, and reached the airline’s primary hub at Dublin Airport, Ireland.

Aer Lingus’ first Airbus A321XLR is powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines. Inside, the cabin has a two-class configuration with 184 seats. The count comprises 16 full-flat seats in Business Class and 168 in Economy. The XL overhead bins, offering 60 per cent more storage space than previous-generation aircraft, and the latest lighting system help enhance the flying experience.

The Airbus A321XLR can travel up to 4,700 nautical miles nonstop. That’s about 15 per cent more than the A321LR. The extra range will enable Aer Lingus to operate new routes beyond the US East Coast and Canada. The list of destinations includes Nashville and Indianapolis.

Aer Lingus is the second operator in the world to receive the Airbus A321XLR. In November 2024, Spain’s Iberia claimed the title of the launch operator of the said aircraft.