Dublin based SMBC Aviation Capital has delivered the first Airbus A321neo LR to Icelandair, marking the airline’s first operation with an Airbus aircraft in its 87-year history.
The A321neo LR is designed to replace Icelandair’s legacy Boeing 757 aircraft, seating 187 passengers and boasting a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles, making it suitable for the airline’s extensive network.
This aircraft is expected to be up to 30pc more fuel efficient than the B757, supporting Icelandair’s sustainability goals by reducing CO₂ emissions and minimizing noise footprints.
Both SMBC Aviation Capital and Icelandair executives expressed enthusiasm for the delivery, highlighting its significance for future collaborations and the expansion of Iceland as a key tourist destination and connecting hub between Europe and North America.
Chief Commercial Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, Barry Flannery shared, “This delivery is an important milestone for Icelandair and SMBC Aviation Capital as it is the first Airbus aircraft ever delivered to Icelandair. Many thanks to the teams at Icelandair and Airbus for their collaboration and hard work in completing this landmark delivery. We look forward to many years of successful partnership with our valued customer, Icelandair.”
Also commenting was the Icelandair CEO, Bogi Nils Bogason shared, “We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board our first Airbus aircraft in the 87-years history of Icelandair. The great collaboration with our long-term partner SMBC Aviation Capital has been crucial in this process. The Airbus aircraft will unleash new opportunities, not only for Icelandair but for Iceland as a tourist destination and a connecting hub between Europe, North America and beyond.”
