Wizz Air Launches Milan-Abu Dhabi Route with New A321XLR

Wizz Air is set to enhance its route network with the introduction of its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which will be stationed in Milan. The Hungarian low-cost carrier (ULCC) plans to launch a new service connecting Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) with Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) starting June 2, 2025. This route will be the longest in Wizz Air’s network, with daily flights scheduled for the extra-long-range narrowbody aircraft.

The move marks a significant expansion for Wizz Air, as the A321XLR will enable the airline to offer longer routes with reduced fuel consumption and operational costs. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, the A321XLR is designed to serve long-haul destinations more efficiently, making it a strategic addition to Wizz Air’s fleet. The Milan to Abu Dhabi route, at 2,544 nautical miles, will surpass the current longest route from Rome to Abu Dhabi by 200 nautical miles.

Wizz Air is entering a competitive market with this new route, directly challenging Etihad Airways. Etihad currently operates 10 weekly flights between Milan and Abu Dhabi using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Wizz Air is positioning itself as a cost-effective alternative, claiming that its fares will be up to 70% lower than those offered by Etihad.

“The Airbus A321XLR represents the pinnacle of cost efficiency in its class,” said Wizz Air CEO József Váradi. “Our successful operation of ultra-low-cost routes ranging from 5 to 6 hours has set a strong foundation. The XLR’s extended range will allow us to offer exceptional value on longer flights, extending our reach to 7-8 hour destinations.”

The A321XLR, equipped with CFM Leap 1A engines, received type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in July. Wizz Air is awaiting the certification for the Pratt & Whitney GTF-powered version of the A321XLR, which is anticipated by the end of the year. This certification is crucial for the carrier as it continues to build its fleet and expand its network.

Wizz Air’s broader strategy includes leveraging the A321XLR for nonstop flights between Europe and Asia, with Abu Dhabi serving as a key hub in this plan. The airline’s commitment to growth is further evidenced by its order of 47 A321neo aircraft, with eight A321XLRs scheduled for delivery in 2025.

The introduction of the A321XLR to Wizz Air’s fleet follows Iberia’s announcement of its own A321XLR deployments from Madrid Adolfo Suarez-Barajas Airport (MAD) to Boston Logan International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport starting in November 2024 and January 2025, respectively.

With over 500 A321XLRs ordered to date, according to the Aviation Week Network Fleet Discovery database, this aircraft is set to revolutionize long-haul low-cost travel, and Wizz Air is poised to be at the forefront of this transformation.