The Airbus long-range jet will make India more accessible: Wizz Air

Its new long-range Airbus SE A321 models could open up a lucrative vein of future growth as demand for air travel surges in the world's most populous country.

“There’s great potential in India, as the country has seen an immense development,” Wizz Chief Executive Officer Jozsef Varadi said in an interview in Budapest today. “I think it may help Europe tackle its employment issues, while its emerging middle class will boost tourism. We’re looking into opportunities there, but this is more a medium-term issue.”

The Airbus A321 XLR will be delivered to Wizz Air in 2024, with 47 on order. The aircraft will allow the budget carrier to expand its operating parameter further east to markets including the Middle East, where Varadi said there’s also greater demand.

According to Varadi, the low-cost carrier has seen growth in all its key markets, including western Europe as well as the eastern part of the European Union and the Middle East. Predicting a busy summer and return to higher capacity, the CEO said he doesn’t expect a slump into the latter part of the year during the seasonal downturn. Business travel is also rebounding as conferences pick up again and people resume face-to-face meetings after the pandemic.