First A321XLR in-service

On November 14th, Iberia marked a major milestone by operating the world’s first transatlantic commercial flight of the A321XLR between Madrid and Boston. With its long-range capability and lower operating costs compared to traditional widebody aircraft, the A321XLR offers airlines the flexibility to serve routes with variable demand while increasing frequency options.

This flexibility is central to Iberia’s strategy to boost winter frequencies on routes like Boston and Washington DC, which typically had fewer flights in past years. By deploying the A321XLR, Iberia can provide passengers with more choices while maintaining cost efficiency during the off-peak season.

A321XLR gains momentum in Latin America

In Latin America, the A321XLR has gained traction among leading carriers, including JetSMART, LATAM Airlines, and SKY. Given Latin America’s vast geography, double the size of the United States or China, the aircraft is well-suited for creating efficient point-to-point connections within the region and beyond.

As air travel demand continues to grow, airlines are increasingly relying on the A321’s higher passenger capacity. In the region, over the last decade, the share of A321 within the in-service A320 Family fleet has risen from 3% in 2014 to 21% in 2024. This trend is set to continue, as the A321neo represents 57% of the overall A320 Family backlog in the region, with over 300 aircraft on order.

Scaling production to meet rising demand

With demand for the A321XLR on the rise, Airbus invested in a new assembly line in Hamburg, which was inaugurated in July 2024. The 24,000 square meter hangar is equipped to handle the assembly of the aircraft’s rear fuselage, including the crucial rear center tank that allows extended range operations. This line incorporates sensor controlled measurement systems, automated tooling, and ergonomic workstations to enhance efficiency and worker safety. This investment aligns with Airbus’s ramp-up plans to produce up to 75 A320 Family aircraft per month by 2027.

An aircraft suited for Latin America regional growth

As air travel in the region expands, the A321XLR will be a game-changer, giving airlines the ability to explore new routes and provide travelers with better options. Its extended range and efficiency enable carriers to adapt to changing demand while enhancing connectivity. The A321XLR represents an opportunity for airlines to innovate and grow in the Latin American market.

For more information contact:

Eliott Veille
Airbus Customer Marketing
eliott.e.veille@airbus.com