Air Transat marked its first first deployment of the Airbus A321LR (the long range variant of the A321neo) to London Gatwick yesterday (8th October).
Air Transat Airbus A321 at Gatwick Airport – Images, Air Transat.
This is first airline to operate the type on a transatlantic leg between Canada and the UK, and the first visit of the type to Gatwick Airport.
The A321LR which arrived at London Gatwick from Toronto Pearson Airport will enter regular operation on Air Transat’s daily service between London Gatwick to Toronto from November. The type will also make its debut at Glasgow Airport on 31st October 2019.
In terms of passenger experience, according to the airline passengers in Economy Class will have wider seats than current aircraft, with natural leather covers. This is paired with a 10″ Seat-Back IFE system and and USB ports to charge personal electronic devices. 187 Economy seats await.
Meanwhile in the Club Class cabin (12 seats), passengers will have larger screens (13″ touch screens), legrests as well leather seats and a more conformtable space to spend time in.
In quotes
Adrian Keating, Commercial Director UK and Ireland at Air Transat, comments:
“We’re delighted that our valued customers in the UK and Ireland are now able to experience our state-of-the-art A321neoLR aircraft on our routes from London Gatwick and, in the near future, from Glasgow too.
“As the World’s Best Leisure Airline, we pride ourselves on setting the standard for holidays to Canada and with this new addition to our fleet, your holiday really does start the minute you get on board.”
An expanding A321LR fleet
Whilst Air Transat and Air Canada do the dance of mergers and takeovers, its business as usual for the airline as the A321LR aircraft are being introduced into the fleet. The airline is due to have a total of 15 A321LR aircraft set to join the fleet by 2022.
Meanwhile, for those who look out for the airlines older Airbus A310, the A321LR’s will be taking their place step by step. With Air Transat to due withdraw the A310s shortly, the A321LR will become a more regular sight as time goes on.
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