Wizz Air’s Latest Airbus A321neo Order Boosts Fleet Backlog

Wizz Air’s recent finalization of a significant order for Airbus A321neo aircraft has spurred a comprehensive assessment of the airline’s current order backlog and deployment strategies for its freshly acquired jets. The announcement, made on August 2, 2023, unveiled a substantial commission of 75 Airbus A321neo planes by the Hungarian budget carrier. This commitment elevates Wizz Air’s A321neo backlog to an impressive total of 434 aircraft. With this move, the comprehensive A320 family order book, encompassing both ceo and neo models alongside the existing fleet, reaches a remarkable count of 565 aircraft.

József Váradi, the CEO of Wizz Air, commented on the development, noting, “This announcement further cements Wizz Air’s position as a dominant A321neo Family operator in Europe and the Middle East.” Váradi emphasized the exceptional economic efficiency and minimal carbon footprint of the A321neo, aligning with the airline’s dedication to affordable and eco-conscious travel options. He also underscored the company’s formidable position with an order book comprising over 350 neo aircraft, solidifying its influence in the aviation sector.

Wizz Air’s active fleet, including stored and maintenance-in-progress planes, stands at 191 aircraft. This fleet encompasses various models, including A320ceo, A321ceo, A320neo, and A321neo, with two planes wet leased from Titan Airways and SmartLynx. These aircraft are registered under distinct Air Operator’s Certificates (AOC) in Hungary, Malta, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Between January 1 and August 1, 2023, Wizz Air received 19 new aircraft, all of which were handed over to its Maltese subsidiary. Notably, eight of these planes were integrated into Wizz Air’s Hungarian operations. Additionally, Wizz Air became the recipient of Airbus’s inaugural A321neo assembled at the Tianjin, China, Final Assembly Line (FAL) for non-Chinese operators. The aircraft, registered as 9H-WDR, touched down at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) on June 28, 2023, and commenced commercial operations the following day.

Regarding engine inspections, Wizz Air disclosed that it identified 12 Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines for examination by the conclusion of Q2 FY24. While the CEO acknowledged the uncertainty around the scope of these inspections, he expressed confidence in the airline’s growth and operational advancements. Wizz Air’s fleet expansion program continues, including expansion plans in Poland, Italy, UK, North Macedonia, Georgia, and Albania. In particular, the airline is making strides in Abu Dhabi, solidifying its position as the second-largest carrier in terms of seats.

With its sights set on the future, Wizz Air anticipates the delivery of 32 Airbus A321neo aircraft by the end of FY24, which concludes on March 31, 2024. Notably, the airline reported a Q1 FY24 profit of €61.1 million ($66.7 million) driven by revenues of €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) and the transportation of 15.2 million passengers during the quarter. Encouragingly, trading performance in the second quarter remains positive, showcasing growth in revenue and load factor improvements compared to the previous year.