Wizz Air aims 35 more planes in 2024, eyes 500 by 2030

Abu Dhabi: Wizz Air aims to add 35 aircraft in 2024 to meet surging global air travel demand, particularly in low-cost aviation, according to CEO Jozsef Varadi. In an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Varadi revealed plans to receive over 300 new planes in the next six years, targeting a fleet of over 500 by 2030, with a substantial portion based in the Middle East, specifically in the UAE.

Wizz Air currently operates 12 aircraft in Abu Dhabi, with intentions to expand to 50 in the next four to five years. In 2023, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi transported over 3 million passengers, with expectations to reach 10 million in the coming years.

Varadi expressed confidence in ending the fiscal year strongly, achieving profitability and operational efficiency close to pre-COVID levels. Wizz Air experienced remarkable growth in 2023, with a 20% increase compared to the previous year and a 50% rise from 2020, positioning itself as one of the fastest-growing airlines.

However, Varadi acknowledged potential challenges in 2024 due to supply chain constraints, particularly related to engine inspections by manufacturers, which may limit capacity expansion despite fleet growth.

Currently operating around 200 aircraft, Wizz Air anticipates delivery of approximately 35 new planes in 2024, projecting a fleet of over 500 by 2030.

Varadi highlighted expectations for similar performance in 2024 compared to 2023, with continued growth in areas such as Abu Dhabi, where business is anticipated to expand by up to 25%. He emphasized the robust performance of the UAE market, attributing it to strong demand for aviation driven by business and economic growth, resulting in a doubling of business in 2023 with further growth anticipated in the current year.

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