Airbus in talks with Wizz Air to defer deliveries of 100 planes

Core Viewpoint - Wizz Air Holdings Plc is planning to defer approximately 100 Airbus aircraft deliveries into the next decade as part of a strategy to reduce costs and stabilize investor confidence after a period of rapid expansion [1][3]. Delivery and Fleet Plans - The aircraft deliveries originally scheduled between now and 2030 are being pushed into the next decade, with the potential deferrals representing over a third of the airline's planned deliveries [2][5]. - As of September 30, Wizz Air has 281 A321neos on order [5]. - The airline anticipates a fleet of 500 planes by fiscal year 2032, which is two years later than previously planned [6]. Operational Adjustments - Wizz Air is scaling back its operations in the Middle East and South Asia, and has grounded some Airbus A320 family jets due to maintenance issues with engines from RTX Corp.'s Pratt & Whitney unit [3][4]. - The airline closed its Abu Dhabi unit in September due to engine troubles and geopolitical challenges, and plans to close its Vienna base by March [4]. Capacity Growth Projections - If the deferrals occur, Wizz Air's capacity growth could be reduced to 10% instead of the planned 14%, with as many as 50 planes potentially deferred in 2027 [6]. - The airline aims to grow its fleet annually at a rate of 15% through 2030 [6].