newstodate.aero

Jan 08, 2021 (newstodate): The Icelandair Group's plans for a future aircraft type to replace its fleet of aging Boeing 757 aircraft were shelved as the coronavirus struck - but are now back on the agenda again in 2021.
   Speaking to the UK-based media Simple Flying, the Group's CEO Nils Bogason confirms that the Airbus A321LR would indeed be an attractive option.
   -We have had our long-term fleet strategy under review since 2019, analyzing which aircraft would be the most suitable replacement for the 757 within the 2025-2027 timeframe. We already see opportunities for our network with aircraft types that can replace the 757 going forward, and we have been reviewing a few different scenarios for our future fleet, Mr Bogason said.
   Offering even a slightly longer range and, indeed, superior fuel efficiency, the Airbus alternative would suit the airline's strategy for expansion of the route network focusing on the European and Transatlantic destination in the USA and Canada.
   In 2020, the Icelandair Group's fleet comprised 22 Boeing 757 aircraft, down to 19 in 2021 after the sale to a yet-unidentified customer in October 2020 of three aircraft for cargo conversion.
   So far, Icelandair has been a staunch Boeing customer, but one Airbus A319 was leased in summer 2019 to cover up for the lack of Boeing 737MAX capacity.
   And in 2007, plans were to acquire up to four Airbus A330-200F freighter aircraft from Avion Trading, slated to be delivered in 2010/2011.
   The deal was, however, abrogated already in 2008 as the Group changed its strategy when the great financial crisis hit the global economy.