Wizz Air Malta has officially welcomed its first Airbus A321XLR, marking the first time this aircraft type has been registered in mainland Europe and the first to operate under the Maltese flag. Registered under 9H-XLA, the aircraft was certified by Transport Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate.

According to Wizz Air, the introduction of the A321XLR represents an important step in its fleet renewal and expansion strategy. The aircraft offers greater range, reduced fuel consumption, and a lower carbon footprint per seat compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft.

The A321XLR – part of the A320neo family – is designed to deliver a 30 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions per seat, while offering extended range and improved passenger experience.

"With the XLR, we continue to expand the boundaries of ultra low-cost travelling for our customers while reducing our environmental impact using the latest technology on the market,” said Mauro Peneda, Managing Director of Wizz Air Malta.

Charles Pace, Director General for Civil Aviation at Transport Malta, remarked: “The Civil Aviation Directorate is pleased to see Wizz Air Malta take delivery of this new, modern aircraft, which will have a reduced carbon footprint and increase the range. This is indeed a milestone for Wizz Air Malta and the Malta Registry. Up till now there have been 114 aircraft registered by the company and there are currently 103 in operation."

Wizz Air confirmed that the aircraft is registered to Wizz Air Malta and that six A321XLRs are scheduled for delivery in 2025, with more than 300 aircraft currently on order.