Iberia to take early delivery of eight new Airbus A330-200s

Iberia and Airbus have reached an agreement over the early delivery of the A330-200s the airline ordered last year, and which will now join the long-haul fleet 14 months earlier than initially planned, between December, 2015, and November, 2016.

The new aircraft will replace the A340-300s, and offer economic and environmental advantages as well as greater comfort and more services for passengers.

The new twin-engine, wide-bodied aircraft, with an autonomy of up to 13,400 km, consumes less fuel than the four-engine A340-300s they replace, and also generate less noise and air pollution.

The earlier delivery dates also speed the upgrading of Iberia’s entire long-haul fleet with the new cabins, fittings, and entertainment and communications systems, for an improved customer experience.

Iberia is currently renewing its long-haul fleet and also its long-haul cabins. In recent years the IAG parent has ordered 24 new long-haul aircraft for Iberia, the eight A330-300s delivered in 2013 and 2014; the eight A330-200s; and eight A350-900s to be delivered later.

Meanwhile, the company is refitting its 17 A340-600s with the new long-haul cabins and equipment, including new seat that turn into flat beds in Business, roomier seating in Economy, and entertainment on demand via touch screens for all passengers, plus Wi-Fi and GSM connectivity, and many other innovations and enhancements.

Currently, about 80% of Iberia’s long-haul fleet boasts the new interiors and other features.