Wizz Air UK has operated its first fuel efficient Airbus A321neo between Luton airport and the Polish city of Poznan.
The new generation aircraft claims to give 20% fuel cost savings and a halving in noise footprint against previous types while fuel burn is reduced by 16% and nitrogen oxide emissions by 50%.
The UK arm of the Hungarian budget airline group plans to take delivery of three more A321neos this year as travel restrictions are releaxed.
The new aircraft will support the airline’s UK plans, with the opening of new bases at Gatwick and Doncaster Sheffield last autumn and a base a Cardiff airport this spring with nine routes.
Wizz Air UK managing director Owain Jones said: “We already operate one of the youngest fleets in Europe, but the arrival and inaugural flight of our first Airbus A321neo aircraft, the first Pratt and Whitney GTF-powered A321neo in the country, represents a significant step forward not only for our growth in the UK market but enhancing the sustainability of our operations.
“Flying the very latest aircraft technology has always been a cornerstone of Wizz’s business, with the benefits of lower fuel consumption and lower noise delivering benefits for our customers and the environment.
“Although only essential travel is currently permitted, we will have four brand new A321neos in the Wizz Air UK fleet by the time restrictions are lifted.”