Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus is to get six new long-haul planes from Airbus.

Its parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), is ordering six Airbus A321XLR aircraft for Aer Lingus and eight for Spanish airline Iberia - plus 14 options.

The first deliveries of the single-aisle jetliner are scheduled for 2023.

The airlines will be among the first customers for the extra long-range narrowbody aircraft.

Each aircraft will be fitted with economy and business cabins, including full flat seats.

They will also feature inflight entertainment, internet connectivity and ambient lighting.

IAG say the new aircraft will enable Aer Lingus to launch new routes beyond the US east coast and Canada.

#A321XLR Airspace Cabin pic.twitter.com/gl6DE57mWC

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Willie Walsh, IAG chief executive, says: "The A321XLR has the same unit cost as a widebody longhaul aircraft which will enable profitable network expansion.

"This will strengthen both Dublin and Madrid hubs providing new transatlantic routes and additional flexibility for connecting passengers.

"These aircraft will also bring further cost efficiencies and environmental benefits."

Source: Airbus

The A321LR is a single-aisle aircraft that can fly routes of up to 4,700 nm (8,700 km) with 244 passengers.

It is also designed to produce 20% lower fuel burn per seat, 5,000 tonnes less CO2 per year, and a noise footprint that is 50% lower for passengers and airports.

The Airspace XL bins give approximately 40% more overhead storage space for passengers | Image: Airbus

The plane also has the largest overhead storage compartment, called 'XL bins', with 40% more volume.

It also features a new toilet design, new window bezels and coloured LED lighting for the cabin.

IAG says the A321XLR list price is approximately US$142m (€126.8m).