Airbus announces imminent delivery of first A321XLR with Pratt & Whitney engines

The version of the A321XLR equipped with Pratt & Whitney engines is still pending full certification from EASA and FAA. Although type certification for Pratt & Whitney's GTF engines has been granted by FAA, final approval for the aircraft itself is awaited from both regulatory bodies.

Wizz Air plans to launch its first route using the new aircraft from London Gatwick International Airport to Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport on March 31, 2025. CEO Jozsef Varadi commented: "The Airbus A321XLR is the most cost-efficient aircraft in its class... We are excited to offer unbeatable fares to our customers on the new route from London Gatwick to Jeddah."

A second route connecting Milan Malpensa Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport will begin daily flights on June 2, 2025. The A321XLR boasts an extended range of up to 4,700 nautical miles and promises a lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation aircraft.

This extended range capability allows airlines to operate longer routes typically served by widebody aircraft but at reduced operational costs due to its narrowbody design.