Wizz Air Celebrates 250th Jet as CEO Reveals Close Call with Boeing

Wizz Air recently celebrated the addition of its 250th aircraft to its fleet at a special event held at Budapest Airport (BUD). The occasion was graced by the airline’s long-serving CEO, József Váradi, alongside staff and media representatives.

The ceremony, which took place on November 28, 2025, commemorated an important chapter in Wizz Air’s journey since it was established in 2004, first introducing the Airbus A320-200 to its lineup.

During his speech, Váradi expressed excitement about the arrival of the new A321neo, revealing that he once believed the airline would exclusively use Boeing aircraft.

In an insightful interview with AeroTime afterward, he stated: “I thought we had to be Boeing because of the heritage in the region. Every airline was flying Boeing. It felt like we didn’t have a choice, but life happened the way it happened, and we ended up becoming an Airbus customer. Seriously, that’s one of the best things that ever happened to us.”

Reflecting on the early years, Váradi described the first seven years as “incredibly challenging,” mentioning that there were serious concerns in 2004 about the airline’s ability to continue operations.

Wizz Air showcases its 250th aircraft in Budapest #A321neo #Airbus 

Váradi praised the Airbus A321neo, calling it “the best in the world” and integral to the airline’s future expansion plans.

“It’s a great aircraft; we see this as the best in the world coming out of Airbus or Boeing. It delivers the best seat economics. It’s a source of competitive advantage for the company,” Váradi noted.

He also quipped about the airline’s current supply chain challenges but refrained from going into detail, humorously acknowledging his audience of supply chain experts.

Wizz Air has faced operational difficulties over the past two years, particularly with maintenance issues affecting the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine, which led to several aircraft being grounded.

At one point, more than 50 aircraft were out of service. However, CCO Michael Delehant stated in October 2025 that he anticipated the grounded total would drop below 40 the following year and be zero by March 2028.

At a special event today in Budapest, Wizz Air welcomed its 250th commercial aircraft. The Airbus A321neo, adorned in a vibrant livery created by a local Hungarian artist, became a focal point of the celebration. 

On stage with Váradi were Johan Pelissier, President of Region Europe and Head of Commercial Europe for Commercial Aircraft, and Peter Barrett, CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital.

Pelissier congratulated Wizz Air on this significant achievement. “This landmark 250th aircraft is a powerful demonstration of over two decades of successful partnership between Airbus and Wizz Air,” he said.

Barrett echoed these sentiments, stating, “We are delighted to support Wizz Air in reaching this important milestone. Being part of delivering their 250th aircraft is a testament to the strength of our long-standing relationship and to Wizz Air’s growth story.”

The newly added A321neo, registered 9H-WMR and leased from SMBC, sports a dazzling commemorative design that reflects the airline’s commitment to innovation and community participation through a global design competition.

Having reached the impressive milestone of a 250-strong fleet, Wizz Air’s expansion continues, with plans to incorporate over 260 more aircraft in the coming years.

With a diverse fleet that now includes A321s, A321neos, and the latest A321XLR aircraft, Wizz Air has established itself as a leader in the low-cost carrier sector across Europe.

What do you think about Wizz Air’s growth trajectory and their commitment to expanding their fleet?