Wizz Air to Slash A321XLR Order and Focus on ‘Benign Markets’

Wizz Air’s turnaround strategy is still evolving; but recent moves suggest a return to core markets and cost discipline as it tries to regain altitude in Europe’s competitive low-cost sector.

European ultra low-cost carrier Wizz Air plans to cut its order for Airbus A321XLR jets by more than 70%, raising doubts about the long-range aircraft’s fit with its business model.

The move was disclosed Thursday as Wizz reported weaker-than-expected earnings for the April-June quarter, citing ongoing engine issues that continue to sideline aircraft and drag on performance.

The company currently has a commitment for 47 of the “Xtra Long Range” jets, but it hopes to reduce this to between 10 and 15 aircraft, describing it as a “right-sizing” decision. It remains unclear how many of the surplus orders will be converted into shorter-range variants.

The mood music has already shifted since the airline accepted its first XLR in May. Speaking at the time, Owain Jones, Wizz Air chief corporate officer, described the delivery as a “defini