US-based airline Virgin America has taken delivery of a new A321neo aircraft from Airbus.

Part of Airbus’ A320neo family of aircraft, the newly delivered single-aisle plane is powered by CFM International’s LEAP-1A engines, and the first of its type to be equipped with LEAP-1A engines.

The aircraft type is designed to reduce noise levels and produces half the noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft.

The Sharklet wingtip devices featured in the aircraft are expected to reduce nitrous oxide emissions by 50% below regulatory requirements as set by the Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP).

“The new A321neo powered by next-generation CFM LEAP-1A engines guarantees new levels of efficiency and longer range to its operators."

In addition, the LEAP-1A engines is expected to consume at least 15% less fuel than Virgin America’s other current generation aircraft, which is equivalent to annually cutting 5,000t of carbon dioxide emissions with each plane.

Airbus chief operating officer and commercial aircraft president Fabrice Brégier said: “After Virgin America having been the first customer signing for the A320neo back in December 2010, we are today delighted to deliver the first A321neo to them.

“With our largest, latest, most fuel efficient NEO single-aisle aircraft, we are turning a new page.

“The new A321neo powered by next-generation CFM LEAP-1A engines guarantees new levels of efficiency and longer range to its operators, greater comfort to the flying public and less emissions and noise to the airport communities.”

Currently operating a fleet of 63 Airbus A320 family aircraft, Virgin America has agreed to run its new A321neo plane on lease from GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS).

Image: Virgin America’s new A321neo aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Airbus SAS.