Airbus delivers first Pratt & Whitney-powered A321XLR to Wizz Air

Wizz Air, a Hungarian ultra-low cost carrier, has taken delivery of the first of its 47 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, becoming the first in the world to operate the A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines and the first European low cost operator of the type.

"The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR brings new value to the market segment, expanding growth opportunities for our airline customers – including Wizz Air as the first of many operators," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "This delivery underscores the benefits the GTF engine offers with its world-class fuel efficiency and operating economics."

Pratt & Whitney currently powers the airline's fleet of 110 A321neo family aircraft with GTF engines.

Wizz Air’s A321XLRs have 239 seats in a single class configuration featuring the newly designed Airspace cabin with an innovative lighting system and multiple settings to create an environment at different phases of the flight, including boarding, dining, relaxing, sleeping, and waking up. With the A321XLR joining its fleet, Wizz Air is enhancing its capacity to connect Europe and the Middle East.

Wizz Air is an all-Airbus operator with a fleet of more than 230 Airbus A320 family aircraft in operation and 295 yet to be delivered.

The A321XLR offers an Xtra Long Range up to 4,700nm, 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft capable of flying with up to 100% SAF by 2030.