PARIS: Wizz Air Holdings Plc, the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe, announced that, as part of the Indigo Partners deal, it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus S.A.S. relating to exercising a part of its existing options for the purchase of 20 Airbus A321XLR aircraft. [the_ad id=”31605″] The present order will be delivered over the course of three years starting in 2023. The A321XLR variant will be operated with 239 seats, the same as the A321neo to ensure full fleet commonality with Wizz Air’s existing fleet.
The XLR aircraft can also be utilized on Wizz Air’s existing network with the same efficiency. Completion of the order remains subject to approval by Wizz Air shareholders, as appropriate.
“The A321XLR is the most cost efficient aircraft of its type and represents a significant opportunity for Wizz Air to further expand its network and connect points on the WIZZ map that are currently out of reach, given the enhanced range capability of the aircraft. Today, we are flying a number of 5-6 hour routes with great satisfaction to our customers, so the XLR will extend our outstanding value and service proposition on routes of 7-8 hours of flying,” said József Váradi, Wizz Air’s Chief Executive Officer.
“The inherent aircraft economics of the Airbus A321XLR will widen our competitive advantage for stimulating demand for air travel in Central and Eastern Europe and beyond while minimizing our environmental footprint. The A320neo family aircraft are game-changing aircraft that enhance Wizz Air’s low fare model and undisputed cost leadership in Europe.”
Today’s announcement will bring Wizz Air’s outstanding firm orders with Airbus to 276 aircraft for deliveries through 2026.
Wizz Air is the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe, operates a fleet of 113 Airbus A320 and Airbus A321 aircraft, and offers more than 650 routes from 25 bases, connecting 146 destinations across 44 countries.