Wizz Air CEO Discusses XLR, Business Class Trial, and Airline Name Origins

During the unveiling of Wizz Air’s 250th aircraft in Budapest, we had a chance to chat with CEO József Váradi about the importance of this milestone and the challenges facing the airline.

The event, held on November 28, 2025, radiated excitement as Váradi celebrated this significant achievement, highlighting the airline’s future with its new Airbus A321neo.

“We take immense pride in our growth. We are on track to carry 72 million passengers this year, surpassing Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France or KLM,” Váradi remarked. “These moments reflect our original vision and how diligently we are executing it.”

Even though Váradi refers to Wizz Air as the “small boys and girls” compared to major legacy airlines, he takes pride in the airline’s independent success.

“These larger carriers have the backing of their governments and a longstanding history in aviation, which we did not have,” he noted.

When asked about his expectations for Wizz Air’s growth, Váradi admitted he hadn’t envisioned a set number but aimed for comprehensive coverage across Europe.

“The ambition to become a significant player in Europe, especially to encourage flying in Central Eastern Europe, has been our vision for over two decades,” he added.

Váradi on Airbus A321XLR Challenges

In November 2025, Wizz Air revealed that it would scale back its order for the Airbus A321XLR from 47 aircraft to just 11.

Wizz Air showcases its 250th aircraft in Budapest #A321neo #Airbus pic.twitter.com/V1eUh0Zzn7

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Wizz Air has taken delivery of five A321XLRs so far, converting the remaining 36 into an order for standard A321neos.

When questioned about his feelings regarding this decision, Váradi explained: “Circumstances changed. We had to respond. Considering the current engine conditions, the risk was too high. Harsh conditions accelerate engine degradation, which would lead to grounding more planes.”

Váradi on New Business Product ‘Wizz Class’

In October 2028, Wizz Air announced plans to test a new business seating option called “Wizz Class” by year-end.

The initiative involves blocking the middle seat in the front row to gauge its potential for broader implementation.

“We noticed that the first row, often thought to be the most desirable, is underutilized. We wanted to find a better way to market this while addressing some of our customers’ needs,” Váradi explained.

How the Name Wizz Air Was Chosen

When it came to naming the Hungarian airline, Váradi consulted an American marketing expert.

He aimed for a name that was “distinct” and “exciting,” reflecting speed, youth, and agility.

“I wanted to avoid the typical blue and white planes or any boring airline names,” he stated.

The agency he worked with proposed over 200 names, which were eventually narrowed down to just three or four after focus group discussions.

“We then visualized these options with colors and logos before returning to consumers for their feedback. It wasn’t solely my decision; it was a democratic process,” he shared.