Fewer flights, higher ticket prices? Wizz Air slows expansion, affecting many travellers
Wizz Air is facing a major decision that could impact travellers across Europe: the airline is reportedly in talks to delay the delivery of around 100 Airbus aircraft — a move that could significantly affect flight schedules and ticket prices in the coming years. According to Bloomberg, some of the deliveries originally planned between now and 2030 could be pushed into the next decade.
Slower growth, tighter cost control
The measure is aimed at curbing the airline’s rapid expansion in recent years, which has raised concerns among investors, according to Portfolio. If negotiations with Airbus are successful, more than a third of the planned aircraft deliveries could be affected. Currently, Wizz Air has confirmed orders for 281 A321neo aircraft.
In an investor presentation last October, the company indicated that it would postpone its 2030 fleet target by two years, reaching the 500-aircraft milestone only in 2032. Wizz Air also suggested that as many as 50 aircraft deliveries could be deferred in 2027, while anticipating annual growth of 10–15% in the following years.
Analyst: Lower capacity, slower expansion
Alexander Paterson, an analyst at Peel Hunt, believes that delaying 90–100 aircraft deliveries could slow the airline’s capacity growth to roughly 10% instead of the originally planned 14%.
This would mean fewer flights and a reduced choice on certain routes, especially in markets where Wizz Air has previously expanded rapidly.
Challenges: Engine issues and base closures
Wizz Air has faced multiple challenges in recent months. Maintenance problems with Pratt & Whitney engines have temporarily grounded several aircraft, causing flight cancellations and delays. In September, the airline closed its Abu Dhabi subsidiary, citing both engine issues and geopolitical restrictions. Its Vienna base is also set to close by March 2026.
What does this mean for travellers?
Although Wizz Air remains a major player in the European market, the slowdown in growth and the postponement of fleet deliveries may have an impact on flight frequency and prices. Fewer new aircraft arriving could mean that the company will not be able to launch new routes as quickly and will have to rely on higher utilisation of existing routes — which could lead to higher ticket prices for passengers.
Wizz Air shares have fallen by 21% so far this year, signalling market uncertainty over the airline’s future growth prospects.