Wizz Air, the Hungarian low-cost airline, is facing significant operational headwinds as it continues to grapple with engine-related issues.
On Tuesday, the airline announced that it has signed a new support agreement with defense and aerospace firm RTX’s Pratt & Whitney.
This agreement comes as Wizz Air expects to keep 40 of its aircraft grounded through fiscal year 2026 due to ongoing engine problems.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Pratt & Whitney will provide comprehensive commercial support to Wizz Air through the end of 2026, this support includes operational assistance and a compensation package to address the direct costs associated with the grounded aircraft.
Wizz Air, headquartered in Budapest and operating an all-Airbus fleet, has been significantly impacted by Pratt & Whitney’s 2023 announcement that more than 1,000 engines needed to be removed from Airbus planes for checks for microscopic cracks.
The impact of engine inspections
These engine inspections have led to ongoing disruptions for Wizz Air.
In September 2023, the airline estimated a potential 10% reduction in capacity during the second half of fiscal 2024 due to the necessary engine checks.
These challenges were compounded in November 2024, when Wizz Air reported a larger-than-expected drop in first-half profit, citing not only the ongoing disruptions related to grounded Airbus planes, but also the effects of conflict in the Middle East.
Looking ahead: a return to growth in 2026
Despite the continued difficulties, Wizz Air remains optimistic about returning to growth, with a focus on 2026.
The airline anticipates taking delivery of 50 new Airbus A321NEO aircraft and plans to grow seat capacity by approximately 20% during that year.
This strategy signals the airline’s intention to move past the current challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.
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