New York (TAN): United States-based carrier JetBlue will change the 13 Airbus A321neo aircraft it has already ordered to the new Xtra Long Range (XLR) version. The order delivery is supposed to start in 2023.
The A321XLR, unveiled earlier this week at the Paris Air Show, is the newest addition to the A321neo aircraft family. Fitted with an extra rear centre tank for more fuel volume, the aircraft is capable of an extended range of 4,700 nautical miles, compared to A321LR’s 4,100 nautical miles. It is also more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, using up to 30 per cent lower fuel per seat.
“This next generation, low-cost single-aisle platform ensures we are building a fleet that meets and exceeds our financial targets for the next decade and beyond. These investments allow us to advance our broader expansion plans but with disciplined, thoughtful growth,” said Steve Priest, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of JetBlue.
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The airline decided to convert the order into the XLR version to expand its transatlantic options to European markets from Boston and New York.
Chief Executive Officer at JetBlue Robin Hayes said: “The incredible extended range of the A321XLR allows us to evaluate even more overseas destinations as we think about JetBlue’s expansion into European markets plagued by high premium fares and subpar service.”
JetBlue will also buy ten Airbus A220-300 aircraft, the delivery of which is scheduled to start in 2025.
“Increasing our firm order for A220 aircraft gives us a valuable tool to support our network strategy in the Americas and continue to build our focus cities with an airplane that offers incredible economics and range. Both the XLR and the A220 ensure we remain committed to meeting financial targets with disciplined growth,” Hayes added.
With the addition of the ten A220 aircraft, the total order now stands at 70.
The combination of aircraft types is expected to provide not only improved financial performance of the fleet but also better flexibility to implement its network plan.
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“By building their future fleet with more A220s and the addition of the A321XLR – the most capable, longest-range aircraft in their categories – JetBlue is signaling a continued commitment to creating new opportunities for people to travel in both comfort and efficiency,” said Chief Commercial Officer of Airbus Christian Scherer.
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