• Spanish airline Iberia operated its first transatlantic Airbus A321XLR flight on Thursday.
• The A321XLR’s extra fuel tank allows it to fly 5,400 miles non-stop, opening up new routes for airlines.
• I toured the jet and was impressed by the flat business class and comfortable coach cabin.

Spanish flag carrier Iberia made the first voyage in history commercial transatlantic Airbus A321XLR Flight from Madrid to Boston on Thursday.

The launch of the narrow-body aircraft represents one thing A new era in long distance travel. Thanks to its extra fuel tank, the A321XLR can fly continuously for up to 11 hours. New routes are opening for the airlineS. Among cities where large aircraft were previously unprofitable and demand was low.

On Friday, I toured Iberia’s flashy new aircraft, equipped with economy and business classes. I thought the plane’s luxurious business class was easily suitable for long-haul flights. Economy seemed comfortable for a seven-hour trek across the Atlantic, but there are some seats I’d avoid.

I look forward to flying Iberia’s new jet one day – especially since I prefer it boarding narrow-body aircraft I fly across the Atlantic and am happy that the A321XLR will expand the possible destinations.