American aircraft leasing company Air Lease Corporation (ALC) has delivered the first of three A321LR on lease to Scandinavian carrier SAS.

Powered by CFM Leap-1A engines, A321LR is said to be one of the most efficient long-haul single-aisle aircraft.

The remaining two aircraft are scheduled for delivery to the airline next year.

Air Lease Corporation executive chairman Steven Udvar-Házy said: “ALC is pleased to announce this first A321-200neo LR delivery to SAS today and introduce the A321neo LR to the airline.

“The A321neo LR from ALC will allow SAS to commence non-stop transatlantic flights from Copenhagen and other cities in Scandinavia to the US and Canada, further enhancing SAS’ overall operations and commitment to maintain a highly competitive, fuel-efficient fleet.”

In addition to the new A321-200neo LR, SAS also operates two Airbus A320-200neo aircraft on long-term lease from ALC delivered this year.

The carrier will have a total of five aircraft on lease from ALC after the deliveries of the remaining aircraft in 2021.

During its delivery flight from Airbus Hamburg to its home base in Copenhagen, the carrier leveraged 10% sustainable jet fuel blend.

The decision is in line with SAS’s commitment to reduce its carbon footprint, as well as Airbus’ objective to support the aviation sector’s ambitious decarbonisation goals.

SAS fleet management vice-president Niklas Hårdänge said: “This is a new aircraft type for SAS, and it is well-suited to the Scandinavian market travel patterns.

“SAS’ ongoing fleet renewal, including new long-haul aircraft such as the A321neo LR, is an investment towards more comfortable travel and sustainable aviation.

“Reducing the carbon footprint in the airline industry is crucial and SAS aims to lead the way.

“We have set a target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 25% by 2025.”