Aer Lingus expands fleet with new Airbus A321XLR deliveries

Benoît de Saint Exupéry, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, commended the aircraft's potential to "revolutionize long-haul travel" with its ability to operate on routes that were previously not feasible with existing narrowbody aircraft.

Aer Lingus plans to expand its North American network with four more A321XLRs expected by the end of 2025. These new aircraft will serve routes to Nashville and Indianapolis starting next summer season. The Dublin-Nashville route will begin on April 12th with four weekly flights, followed by Indianapolis on May 3rd also operating four times weekly.

The A321XLR can seat up to 184 passengers across two cabin classes and features enhancements such as lie-flat seats in business class and improved economy seating. It offers increased onboard comfort with wider seats and more overhead bin space.

With a range capability of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), which is 15% greater than the A321LR, Aer Lingus aims to extend its reach beyond traditional US East Coast destinations.

Airbus has received over 550 orders for the A321XLR from various airlines globally. The plane's design includes a rear-center cargo fuel tank allowing it to carry an additional 12,900 liters of fuel, enabling nonstop flights exceeding nine hours.