United Airlines is considering purchasing the Airbus A321neo Long Range (LR)
to replace part of its Boeing 757-200s. The Airbuses must then mainly serve on
trans-Atlantic routes.
 
When the A321LRs arrive, United wants to equip it with 178 seats. Sixteen of
them are in the Polaris Business Class cabin and can be completely flat. In
addition, there are 90 in Economy Class and 72 in Economy Plus (with extra
legroom).
 
Compared to the 'ordinary' A321neo, the LR has more fuel capacity and is
therefore suitable for flights between Europe and the American east coast.
Various companies, such as Aer Lingus and Air Transat, have ordered the
aircraft for that reason.
 
The Boeing 757-200's from United will soon be replaced with an average age of
22 years. However, the race is not run yet for the A321LR: United indicated
earlier to also be interested in the new Boeing 797.

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 * Origin: AVIATION ECHO HQ (2:292/854)