Wizz Air Plans Nonstop Flights Between Europe and India with Airbus A321XLR

Wizz Air CEO József Váradi has confirmed the airline's consideration of launching direct flights between several European cities and airports in India. This expansion is made possible by the upcoming induction of Wizz Air’s Airbus A321XLR aircraft, the longest-range variant of the A320 family.

Wizz Air has ordered 47 A321XLRs, combining agreements from 2019 and 2021. Váradi hinted at the potential operations to India at the 2023 EU-India Aviation Summit. He mentioned that India is a potential market for the A321XLR, reflecting the airline's strategy to expand its network.

Speaking at the CAPA India Aviation Summit in Delhi, Váradi revealed that Wizz Air is looking to launch direct flights to India from "six to seven" European cities. The first A321XLR is expected in February 2025, with services to India planned for the next financial year. Hungary, Austria, and Italy are key to Wizz Air’s operations, hinting at potential route origins.

Váradi stated, "We are going to receive the very first XLR in nine months, in February 2025. And we will have 47 of those aircraft coming in. With regard to India…We are in discussions with the (Indian) government and the regulator, and also in Europe… From Europe, we are a designated carrier from Italy, Austria and Hungary… We are talking to the Indian side to make sure that the designation is recognized, accepted and approved."

Wizz Air’s focus remains on Central and Eastern Europe for expansion. The A321XLR's advanced economics will enhance the airline's low-fare model and cost leadership in Europe while minimizing its environmental footprint. The aircraft’s range will enable flights up to 8 hours, facilitating direct connections between Europe and India.

Possible routes include Budapest to Delhi, Warsaw to Mumbai, and Prague to Delhi, among others. Váradi highlighted the demand for affordable flights from Europe to India, noting that one-way fares could start at €200, significantly lowering travel costs and boosting economic ties.

Wizz Air’s expansion into the India-Europe market positions it as a competitive low-cost carrier, potentially filling a niche currently unserved by other airlines. This move aligns with the airline’s strategy to broaden its network and offer cost-effective travel solutions.