Icelandair Boosts Fleet with Two Additional A321LRs from CALC

Icelandair has recently announced a series of exciting developments aimed at enhancing its operations and expanding its reach. Notable updates include a lease agreement for two additional Airbus A321LR narrowbody aircraft and the introduction of a new route connecting Iceland with Edinburgh, Scotland. Furthermore, Bogi Nils Bogasson, the airline’s CEO, will serve as interim COO until a permanent replacement is appointed.

On September 12, 2025, Icelandair confirmed a lease agreement with CALC (China Aircraft Leasing Group) for two brand-new Airbus A321LR aircraft. These new additions will augment the existing fleet of A321LRs, which are primarily replacing the carrier’s once sizeable Boeing 757 fleet. Previously operating 37 units, the airline now has just 11 of the 757s remaining, with Boeing 737 MAX 8s also stepping in for some larger routes.

“This lease agreement marks the beginning of a new partnership between Icelandair and CALC, based on a shared vision and long-term collaboration,” the airline stated. “The A321LR offers extended range, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions compared to the 757s, aligning with Icelandair’s sustainability goals and enhancing passenger comfort through Airbus’ award-winning Airspace cabin design.”

The new Airbus A321LR aircraft are expected to be delivered directly from Airbus in the winter season of 2026/2027, boosting Icelandair’s growing fleet, which currently includes four A321LRs.

“We are excited to welcome CALC as a new partner in our fleet development journey,” said Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO of Icelandair. “The addition of these two Airbus A321LR aircraft supports our strategy to modernize our fleet with more efficient aircraft, reflecting our commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience while expanding our route network.”

Icelandair’s collaboration with Airbus began in April 2023 when the airline signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the purchase of 13 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, with rights for an additional 12. Deliveries are set to start in 2029, but to fill the gap, Icelandair is leasing several A321LRs, currently operating four leased units.

Earlier this year in January, Icelandair entered into long-term lease agreements with CDB Aviation for two new A321LR aircraft, which are set to arrive in the latter half of 2025. With the addition of the CALC aircraft, the A321LR fleet will grow to six, providing increased capability and flexibility across the network. The new aircraft will contribute to higher capacity on European routes and facilitate new opportunities in both the US and Canada.

Returning to Scotland

On September 12, 2025, Icelandair inaugurated a new service between Edinburgh and Iceland, enhancing its growing network. The airline plans to offer three to four flights weekly to Edinburgh, transitioning from a seasonal service to a year-round offering due to positive customer feedback.

Flights will be operated using a Boeing 737 MAX 8, with a travel time of two hours and 20 minutes to Edinburgh (EDI) and two hours and 35 minutes back to Keflavik-Reykjavik Airport (KEF). According to the airline, “The flight times enable seamless connections to Icelandair’s extensive global network, serving 18 destinations in North America, effectively linking Iceland with the world.”

“This route launch coincides with the 80^th anniversary of Icelandair’s flights to Scotland, marking a significant legacy of connecting these two nations as part of the airline’s inaugural international service. Edinburgh joins Reykjavik as the second Scottish route offered by Icelandair, alongside Glasgow, further establishing the airline’s presence in the region,” the airline’s statement added.

Additionally, earlier in September, it was announced that Sylvía Kristín Ólafsdóttir would resign as Chief Operating Officer. While the search for a successor is in progress, Bogi Nils Bogason will temporarily fulfill the COO responsibilities alongside his role as CEO until a new appointment is made.