Icelandair (FI, Reykjavik Keflavik) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus to order thirteen A321-200NY(XLR)s with a further 12 options, and plans to additionally source at least four A321-200NX(LR)s from lessors to replace its B757 fleet.
Deliveries of the (XLR)s from the manufacturer will begin in 2029. However, the first four (LR)s are expected to join the fleet in 2025. Icelandair said it was in "advanced negotiations" regarding the first four units, while "further additions can be expected in the years thereafter".
The A321neo will be the first Airbus aircraft in Icelandair's history and will operate alongside the airline's fleet of B737 MAX. Reports about its partial switch to Airbus for the B757 replacement have been around since 2019.
"The B757 has been the cornerstone of Icelandair's operations since 1990. Its unique capabilities have underpinned the successful development of our extensive route network and competitive transatlantic hub by leveraging Iceland's unique geographical location to connect North America and Europe via Iceland. The excellent Airbus aircraft will not only allow us to further develop our proven business model around transatlantic flights but also open opportunities for future growth by entering new and exciting markets," Chief Executive Bogi Nils Bogason said.
The ch-aviation fleets module shows that Icelandair's current fleet comprises twelve B737-8s (with four more on order from lessors), four B737-9s, sixteen B757-200s (of which only eight are currently active), one B757-200(PCF), one B757-200PF, two B757-300s, two B767-300ER(BCF)s, and three B767-300ERs. The passenger B757s are nearly 25 years old on average. The airline did not respond to ch-aviation's queries concerning the future of the remaining passenger B767s.
The Icelandic carrier said its A321neo would be configured for "around 190 passengers". The airline operates its B757-200s in two layouts seating up to 183-184 passengers (with 20-22 business class seats, respectively), while the -300s seat up to 225 passengers (with 22 business class seats). The B737-8s are configured for up to 160 passengers, and the -9s - up to 178.
