HAMBURG- Wizz Air (W6), the Budapest-based low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of the world’s first Airbus A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. The aircraft arrived at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), marking a milestone in both airline and aviation history.
With this delivery, Wizz Air becomes the first global operator of the A321XLR equipped with Pratt & Whitney’s advanced engines, and the first European low-cost airline to introduce the long-range narrowbody into its fleet.
Photo: Wizz AirWizz Air A321XLR Delivery
Wizz Air’s new Airbus A321XLR features a 239-seat, single-class configuration with Airbus’s latest Airspace cabin. This includes customizable lighting settings that enhance passenger experience during various flight phases—boarding, dining, relaxing, sleeping, and waking. The interior reflects the airline’s goal to elevate comfort while maintaining its ultra-low-cost model.
The A321XLR is designed for Xtra Long Range (XLR) operations, capable of flying up to 4,700 nautical miles. This allows Wizz Air to connect more distant city pairs across Europe and the Middle East, and potentially open direct routes previously unviable with single-aisle aircraft.
The added range expands Wizz Air’s reach, allowing nonstop flights to destinations such as the Arabian Gulf and Central Asia.
This move strategically aligns with Wizz Air’s goal to grow its network while maintaining cost efficiency. The aircraft’s fuel burn per seat is 30% lower compared to previous-generation competitors, translating into lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.
Photo: Owain JonesAll-Airbus Fleet
Wizz Air operates an all-Airbus fleet, primarily composed of A320neo Family aircraft. Currently, the airline has over 230 aircraft in service and a firm order backlog of 295 jets, one of the largest in Europe. This latest delivery strengthens the carrier’s modern, fuel-efficient profile, positioning it for continued expansion in underserved and emerging markets.
As a key customer of Airbus, Wizz Air plays a significant role in accelerating the adoption of newer, greener technologies. The A321XLR fits seamlessly into the airline’s growth plan while aligning with EU goals for carbon emissions reduction in aviation.
The A321XLR supports operations with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today and is designed to handle 100% SAF by 2030. Combined with Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines, the aircraft offers reduced nitrogen oxide emissions and significantly lower noise footprints, contributing to more sustainable aviation across Wizz Air’s growing route map.
This delivery reflects broader industry trends, with Airbus securing over 500 orders for the A321XLR globally. Airlines are increasingly seeking fuel-efficient, long-range narrowbodies as they balance capacity needs with environmental compliance and operational flexibility.
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