Volaris Takes Action Amid Pratt & Whitney Groundings, Laying Off 200 Staff

In response to ongoing inspections of its Pratt & Whitney engines, Mexico’s Volaris (Y4, México City International) has made operational adjustments, resulting in the layoff of 200 employees. The low-cost carrier, backed by Indigo Partners, plans to prioritize rehiring these personnel once the inspections conclude and capacity rebounds.

Volaris recently revised its financial guidance for the remainder of 2023, attributing part of the challenges to the groundings affecting its A320neo Family jets. The airline operates a fleet comprising forty-five A320-200Ns, six A321-200Ns, and sixteen A321-200NX equipped with PW1000G engines. Currently, fifteen A320neo and two A321neo are grounded for maintenance. Additionally, the fleet includes one A319-100, thirty-nine A320-200s, and ten A321-200s, with 142 more A320neo Family aircraft on order from Airbus.

Addressing the situation, Volaris emphasized the preventive nature of Pratt & Whitney’s accelerated reviews, affecting numerous airlines worldwide. The airline outlined an action plan to mitigate the impact, including extending lease contracts, incorporating new Airbus jets, and actively seeking additional aircraft and engines.

Volaris acknowledged the likelihood of a temporary operational adjustment, leading to the responsible reduction of approximately 200 jobs. However, the airline, in collaboration with unions, reached a labor agreement with benefits exceeding current regulations. The statement reassured that once the preventive engine inspections conclude and fleet capacity is restored, preference will be given to the laid-off personnel during the rehiring processes.

Volaris expressed its commitment to overcoming the current challenges, pledging to work diligently to navigate through the situation, much like it has in the face of previous adversities.