Wizz Air is set to revolutionize long-haul travel with the launch of a new route from Gatwick Airport to Saudi Arabia, offering affordable fares starting at just £134.99. The new service will utilize the airline’s latest fleet of Airbus A321XLR aircraft, marking a significant expansion for the budget airline.
Exciting New Routes and Aircraft
The inaugural flight on this route will depart for Jeddah, a major port city in Saudi Arabia, by the end of March 2025. Covering nearly 3,000 miles, the flight is expected to take approximately seven hours. The Airbus A321XLR, known for its efficiency, features an extended range with an additional fuel tank, enabling it to burn up to 30% less fuel per seat compared to earlier models.
In addition to the Gatwick-Jeddah route, Wizz Air will introduce a new service from Milan to Abu Dhabi, utilizing the same A321XLR aircraft. This model supports longer flights, with a maximum duration of up to eight hours, offering enhanced travel options compared to previous aircraft models. While the A321XLR will have non-reclinable seats, Wizz Air promises ergonomic seating designed to provide passengers with a comfortable travel experience.
Addressing Recent Challenges
The announcement comes amidst recent disruptions at Gatwick Airport, which saw delays affecting several airlines. Ryanair’s CEO has called for the resignation of the head of air traffic control, while Wizz Air’s CEO, Jozsef Varadi, acknowledged the challenges posed by these delays. Despite the setbacks, Varadi assured that the airline is actively working to address these issues and improve its service.
Wizz Air has faced scrutiny as the UK’s most delayed airline for the past three years, according to analysis by the PA news agency. While the airline has made progress in addressing these delays, Varadi noted that there is still work to be done. The exact cost of each new Airbus A321XLR has not been disclosed by Wizz Air, but industry estimates suggest the price of an Airbus A321neo, a similar model, is around £98.9 million.
