Saudia has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the first airline in the Middle East and Africa to operate the aircraft type.
The aircraft is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and is the first of 15 A321XLR aircraft ordered by the Saudi carrier.
The aircraft will support Saudia’s fleet modernisation programme alongside the expansion of its international services as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. This government initiative aims to increase tourism and improve global connectivity to the Kingdom.
Saudia currently operates flights to more than 100 destinations across four continents. The A321XLR will allow it to open additional long-haul routes using a single-aisle aircraft rather than larger widebody jets.
The A321XLR has a published range of up to 4,700 nautical miles. Airbus said the aircraft is designed to provide airlines with greater operational flexibility while reducing fuel consumption compared with earlier-generation aircraft.
The aircraft delivered to Saudia has a two-class layout with 24 business class seats and 120 economy class seats. The business class cabin includes full-flat seats with direct aisle access. The aircraft also features Airbus’ Airspace cabin design, including larger overhead storage bins and updated lighting systems.
The A321XLR delivers around 30 percent lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous-generation aircraft. All current Airbus aircraft are also capable of operating with up to 50 percent sustainable aviation fuel, with a target of reaching 100 percent capability by 2030.
The delivery marks more than four decades of cooperation between Airbus and Saudia. The airline first introduced Airbus aircraft into its fleet with the delivery of an A300 in 1984.
