Wizz Air has announced a significant reduction in its order for the Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The airline initially planned to acquire 47 of these planes but now expects to take delivery of only 10 to 15. This decision comes as Wizz Air reevaluates its strategy following its upcoming exit from the Middle East, specifically Abu Dhabi.
CEO József Váradi clarified that the company is not canceling orders with Airbus but is instead converting some of the A321XLR orders. "We are not talking about canceling," Váradi stated during an earnings call, explaining that the move will help eliminate complexities associated with longer flights.
The decision is closely tied to Wizz Air's plan to shut down operations in Abu Dhabi by September 1 due to regional geopolitical instability and operational reliability issues. The extra range provided by the A321XLR was initially intended to support operations in this region, but it is no longer necessary following their withdrawal.