MONTREAL — Air Transat’s strategic move to an all-Airbus fleet got a big boost with the arrival of its first Airbus A321neoLR, with 14 more on the way by 2022.

The aircraft’s long range will optimize Transat’s operations in its core markets in Europe, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, says Chief Operating Officer Annick Guérard.

“The Airbus A321neoLR represents what Air Transat stands for today and what we strive for in the coming years,” says Guérard.

Air Transat’s second Airbus A321neoLR is set to land in June, with four more arriving in fall 2019. New planes will be gradually added, leading to an all-Airbus fleet by 2022. Air Transat has signed a deal with AerCap for the long-term lease of 15 Airbus A321neoLRs.

The new aircraft not only solidifies Air Transat’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism, it also offers passengers a superior on-board experience, says Guérard.

Compared to previous generation Airbus aircraft, the Airbus A321neoLR consumes over 15% less fuel, generates 50% less noise in the cabin and communities, produces about 5,000 fewer tonnes of CO2 a year and lowers NOX emissions (contributors to smog and acid rain) by 50%.

Onboard, passengers will step into an entirely redesigned cabin, where comfort is crucial, says Guérard. “A key element behind all of our decisions is that we want travellers to feel like they’re on vacation from the moment they set foot on board.”

She says Air Transat and Airbus went over every detail of the cabin interior to ensure the best inflight experience possible.

Club Class, with its exclusive cabin and personalized service, was given a new look. Its 12 deep-blue natural leather seats, with their wider individual touch screens, are even more ergonomic and have a leg rest for maximum comfort.

In Economy Class, the 187 light-blue natural leather seats are wider than those of previous generations of Airbus, providing passengers with more personal space. They’re equipped with a state-of-the-art entertainment system, with larger individual touch screens and USB ports to charge electronic devices.