Icelandair has done something new for the airline today – as it has become an Airbus operator, with the delivery of its first Airbus A321LR.
Icelandair Airbus A321LR (with a Beluga XL taking off in the background) – Image, Airbus
The A321LR marks the first step in the airline’s fleet renewal, making it the newest Airbus operator. It is the first of four aircraft to be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited.
The airline will also take delivery of 13 Airbus A321XLRs.
Icelandair’s A321LR comprises 187 seats in a two-class configuration (22 Business and 165 Economy Class seats). The aircraft’s Airspace cabin features XL bins, providing 60% more stowage space compared to previous-generation aircraft for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew alike.
In terms of IFE, it’s a major launch, with the Pansonic Avionics Astrova IFE platform – marking its first deployment into client use.
Astrova should create a cinematic cinematic experience for Icelandair’s passengers through 4K OLED HDR10+ displays for the most accurate colour reproduction, infinite contrast ratios and perfect blacks. The airline will offer 16-inch screens in Business Class and 13-inch in Economy. Passengers will also be able to experience high-fidelity sound with Spatial Audio on any wired headset or their own wireless headphones using Panasonic Avionics’ Bluetooth technology and take advantage of 67W of USB-C power at each seat to fast-charge their laptop or any other personal devices.
Astrova will also enhance Icelandair’s cabin environment and passenger experience with programmable LED lighting which can complement different phases of the flight such as meal services.
Icelandair has also selected a range of Panasonic Avionics’ advanced digital solutions including Arc, ZeroTouch and OneMedia. These are set to optimize performance and streamline operations with data-driven analytics.
Panasonic ARC aboard an Icelandair Airbus A321LR – Image, Panasonic Avionics
Arc is a map[ping solution that provides a premium point of interest content in a 3D integrated moving map application, with a constant update cycle to ensure the content is relevant.
InFlight connectivity will be powered by Viasat over its Ka-Band networks.
Icelandair has chosen Pratt & Whitney GTF engines for their new Airbus A321LR – which is suited to its transatlantic route (with the type rated for flying up to 4,000 nautical miles). Combined with the fuel efficiency that allows the 20% fuel savings, along with Sustainable Air Fuel compatibility (50% blend currently, increasing to 100% by 2030).
LR’s to start with. XLR’s to follow
Today marks a start from an airline that was mostly all-Boeing for its jet-powered fleet, with the airline starting its adventure with Airbus equipment.
The A321LR has arrived first, with the A321XLRs not due to arrive before 2029. For now, Icelandair has leased capacity for the airline to grow, as well as start retiring older aircraft.
With the first routes pencilled in, I’m more than curious about the passenger experience – especially with some of the latest inflight entertainment and connectivity installed aboard it.
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