As we reported multiple times, there are significant problems with the Airbus A320 engines. Therefore, maintenance is compulsory, but that takes months during which planes cannot fly. Since Wizz Air bought lots of Airbus A320s, the maintenance affects its fleet significantly. According to Világgazdaság, they may lose even 20% of their planes temporarily, and the worst is still ahead.
Based on their article, Wizz Air CEO József Váradi said that the number of Wizz planes on the ground will peak in 6-12 months. That is because the producer cannot keep up with the outstanding number of engines that need adjustment.
Photo: FB/Budflyer
RTX recalled more than 3,000 Pratt & Whitney engines after it became apparent that metal powder contaminated them. The powder causes premature failures in the motors. Mr Váradi said in a Thursday interview that approximately 20% of the Wizz Air planes are on the ground due to measurements and maintenance. RTX’s prognosis is about a 300-day-long waiting time, Világgazdaság wrote.
In the next few years, many Airbus SE A320 planes will have to be on the ground due to the examinations and reparations. However, even F-35 fighters fly with Pratt & Whitney motors.
Photo: FB/Wizz Air
Wizz Air will not be able to expand its network this summer
Based on an RTX statement, they expect to repair most of the motors in Q2 2024, but Mr Váradi believes that was only a desire since we are already at the end of Q1 this year. The company promised to increase its capacity concerning production and reparation to reduce the waiting time. Furthermore, regulatory deadlines are more favourable than previously expected. As a result, in autumn, the number of planes forced to the ground due to engine problems will probably be lower than the calculated 650.
Váradi said they would not lose more than 20% of their planes because of the engine maintenance. The remaining aircraft will be enough to provide the planned service for the summer season. However, they will not be able to raise capacities this summer. Even so, they try to purchase planes, prolong leasing contracts and buy new aircraft.
Photo: depositphotos.com
Váradi said Wizz Air had to cease 13% and 7% due to the war in Ukraine and Israel. However, the low-cost airline is profitable. The airline does not plan to buy another airline. Instead, they would like to expand their network by buying airport places.
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
