Icelandair leases six new Airbus jets

Icelandair is significantly expanding its Airbus fleet with the addition of six A320neo aircraft, secured through lease agreements with Aircastle. These new planes are slated to enter service by the summer of 2028. This move complements an earlier announcement regarding the lease of four similar aircraft from AviLease, which are scheduled to join the fleet in spring 2027.

The ten new aircraft are equipped with Pratt & Whitney engines and are models from 2018-2020. This expansion is a key component of Icelandair's comprehensive fleet renewal strategy. The airline currently operates seven Airbus aircraft. With three new A321LR planes arriving next winter, the total Airbus fleet will reach 20 aircraft once the A320neo planes are integrated.

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The introduction of these Airbus aircraft is part of a comprehensive renewal of Icelandair's fleet, and over the past decade, the company has invested in the new generation of fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320 family aircraft. In return, the company has accelerated the phase-out of Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft, with their use in passenger service expected to cease from January 2027.

Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO of Icelandair, highlighted the ongoing investment in fleet modernization. He noted that by next year, the airline's entire passenger fleet will consist of new-generation aircraft, boasting up to 30% less fuel consumption per seat compared to older models. Bogason emphasized that this fleet renewal supports the company's goals of strengthening its route network, simplifying its fleet operations, and enhancing customer service and travel experience.

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We continue to invest in a comprehensive fleet renewal and welcome our new partnerships with Aircastle and AviLease. Next year, we will reach the significant milestone that all of the company's passenger flights will be operated on new-generation aircraft that use up to 30% less fuel per seat than older types. At the same time, the fleet renewal supports our goals of strengthening the route network, simplifying the fleet, and providing customers with excellent service and travel experience.