Summary
Excitement is building as Wizz Air prepares to welcome its first Airbus A321XLR, a game-changing aircraft that will take the airline’s long-range capabilities to new depths. However, aviation enthusiasts and travellers will have to wait a little longer than expected, as the arrival of Wizz Air UK’s first A321XLR, G-XLRA, has been pushed back from March to April 10, 2025.
The Delay and Temporary Plans
Originally scheduled to enter service this month, the aircraft’s delay means that Wizz Air UK will have to make adjustments. The airline’s highly anticipated London Gatwick to Jeddah route, set to launch on March 31, will go ahead as planned—but initially with an A321neo instead of the new XLR model. To ensure the aircraft can complete the journey nonstop, Wizz Air will limit its passenger capacity, reducing the overall weight and avoiding the need for refueling stops.
Despite this slight setback, Wizz Air remains committed to its expansion plans, with its customer service team proactively assisting any affected passengers.
What Makes the A321XLR Special?
A321XLR prototype
The Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) is the latest evolution of the A321neo family, offering an extended range of up to 4,700 nautical miles. This means Wizz Air will soon be able to operate even longer nonstop flights, bringing new destinations into reach while maintaining the low-cost efficiency the airline is known for.
Wizz Air has placed a significant bet on the A321XLR, with 47 of the type on order. This aircraft will allow the airline to expand further into the Middle East, Africa, and even parts of Asia—potentially unlocking new ultra-low-cost, long-haul routes.
Where Will Wizz Air Fly the A321XLR?
While the A321XLR will initially serve Jeddah from London Gatwick, Wizz Air has ambitious plans for the aircraft. Likely future routes include longer services from its European bases to destinations in the Middle East and beyond. Additionally, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the airline’s Middle Eastern subsidiary, will also begin flying the XLR, further boosting connectivity between the Gulf region and Europe.
G-XLRA: A Special Delivery for Aviation Enthusiasts
The first aircraft, MSN 11631, has already been spotted undergoing rejected takeoff tests at Airbus’ Hamburg Finkenwerder facility. Once delivered to Wizz Air UK, it will carry the registration G-XLRA—a fitting name for the airline’s first foray into the XLR era.
While the delay is disappointing, the excitement surrounding this aircraft remains high. Aviation fans and plane spotters should keep a close eye on April 10, when G-XLRA is expected to arrive and kick-start a new chapter for Wizz Air’s operations.
