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 aircraftâs 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 âXtra Long Rangeâ jets, but it hopes to reduce this to between 10 and 15 aircraft, describing it as a âright-sizingâ 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 âde