Aer Lingus Soars Across the Atlantic with New Airbus A321XLR
Aer Lingus has officially launched its transatlantic operations with the state-of-the-art Airbus A321XLR. This innovative aircraft is designed to serve longer, less-trafficked routes, offering the range of a wide-body jet with the efficiency of a narrow-body. The airline is leveraging this new capability to expand its U.S. network and enhance the passenger experience on key routes.
Key Takeaways
- Aer Lingus is deploying the Airbus A321XLR on transatlantic routes, including new destinations like Nashville and Indianapolis.
- The A321XLR offers a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, enabling longer flights with a single-aisle aircraft.
- The cabin configuration mirrors the existing A321LR, featuring 16 lie-flat business class seats and 168 economy seats.
- Passengers benefit from Dublin Airport’s U.S. preclearance facility, streamlining arrival in the United States.
Expanding the Network
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Aer Lingus to open and optimize thinner U.S. routes from its Dublin hub. New destinations such as Nashville (BNA) and Indianapolis (IND) have been launched, with flights to Raleigh-Durham (RDU) planned for April 2026. The aircraft also supplements existing services to cities like Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) and Hartford, Connecticut (BDL).
Business Class Experience
The business class cabin features 16 lie-flat seats, with a configuration that includes both paired seats and coveted solo "throne" seats. Throne seats offer enhanced privacy and storage, while paired seats are ideal for couples. All business class seats are 22 inches wide and convert into 77-inch lie-flat beds. Amenities include Jo Browne skincare amenity kits, 18-inch 4K screens with Bluetooth audio, and complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi, albeit with slower speeds.
Economy Class Comfort
In economy, the A321XLR boasts a modern cabin with 168 seats. Each seat is equipped with a 12-inch 4K screen, Bluetooth capability, and dual USB power outlets, an upgrade from the airline’s A321LR fleet. Seat width is 18 inches, with legroom varying between 30.5 and 32 inches, with bulkhead and exit row seats offering more space. Meals and beverages are provided, with snacks available upon request.
Booking with Points and Miles
Economy class awards can be booked using Avios through British Airways Executive Club or Aer Lingus AerClub, with off-peak redemptions starting at 13,000 Avios plus taxes and fees. Business class can be booked using Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles, with rates starting at 45,000 miles for shorter flights and 55,000 miles for longer routes like MSP to DUB, plus minimal taxes and fees.
