A deal to purchase 110 Airbus A321neo aircraft worth $13.7 billion has been agreed by Wizz Air.
The agreement will enable the central and eastern European budget airline replace older aircraft in its fleet as well as meet expansion plans into the next decade.
Airbus has granted significant discounts from list prices of the aircraft to Wizz Air, the carrier said. It follows a memorandum of understanding with Airbus announced in June.
The airline has an outstanding commitment to purchase a further 48 aircraft from Airbus, comprising 21 A320ceo (current engine option) aircraft and 27 A321ceo aircraft. However, ten A320ceos currently due for delivery in 2018 under an existing order will be cancelled.
The first 230-seat A321ceo aircraft will enter service in November.
The new agreement includes the purchase of 110 Airbus A321neos (new engine option) for delivery between 2019 and 2024. Fifty one are planned to replace existing aircraft in the fleet. The airline currently operates 63 A320s.
“Airbus neo aircraft provide additional efficiencies that will enable Wizz Air to offer even lower fares to the market and will ensure Wizz Air maintains its young, efficient, industry leading fleet,” the airline said.
Chief executive, József Váradi, said: “This order will help us to build on our strong market position in central and eastern Europe. It also provides significant flexibility to match our fleet to our growth requirements.
“The new aircraft will enable us to sustain our cost advantage through cabin innovations, the latest engine technology and other efficiency improvements, while enhancing our customer offering and experience.
“Airbus is a key partner for us and we believe they have the best aircraft to serve our markets and we are happy to be continuing our longstanding relationship with them.”