Latest news with #OwainJones


Skift
6 days ago
- Business
- Skift
Wizz Air to Slash A321XLR Order and Focus on ‘Benign Markets'
Wizz Air's turnaround strategy is still evolving; but recent moves suggest a return to core markets and cost discipline as it tries to regain altitude in Europe's competitive low-cost sector. European ultra low-cost carrier Wizz Air plans to cut its order for Airbus A321XLR jets by more than 70%, raising doubts about the long-range aircraft's fit with its business model. The move was disclosed Thursday as Wizz reported weaker-than-expected earnings for the April-June quarter, citing ongoing engine issues that continue to sideline aircraft and drag on performance. The company currently has a commitment for 47 of the 'Xtra Long Range' jets, but it hopes to reduce this to between 10 and 15 aircraft, describing it as a 'right-sizing' decision. It remains unclear how many of the surplus orders will be converted into shorter-range variants. The mood music has already shifted since the airline accepted its first XLR in May. Speaking at the time, Owain Jones, Wizz Air chief corporate officer, described the delivery as a 'defini


Business News Wales
27-06-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Major Fitness Room Upgrade at Holyhead Leisure Centre Set to Begin
Work on a £140,000 upgrade to the fitness room at Holyhead Leisure Centre is set to begin. This development, led by Môn Actif, Anglesey Council's leisure service, is made possible thanks to significant savings from newly renegotiated energy contracts. These savings are being reinvested into enhancing local facilities. The fitness room will be upgraded with the latest TechnoGym equipment including modern cardio machines such as treadmills, rowers, cross-trainers, stair masters and bikes, new pin-loaded strength machines and three cable crossover stations. All strength machines will be IFI Accredited, ensuring full accessibility and inclusion for users with disabilities. A new floor will be installed in the cardio area room, and painting will also be part of the project. Anglesey's Leisure, Tourism and Maritime Portfolio Holder, Councillor Neville Evans, said: 'We're delighted to see this investment in Holyhead Leisure Centre, which will provide residents with access to state-of-the-art, inclusive fitness equipment. 'Regular physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing, and we encourage everyone to take full advantage of these improved facilities once they reopen. This investment highlights our commitment to supporting healthier, more active communities on Anglesey.' Owain Jones, Commercial Leisure Manager for Anglesey County Council, added: 'This £140,000 investment is a direct result of savings made through renegotiating energy contracts. 'It reflects our commitment under the Council Plan 2023–28 to invest in leisure infrastructure that increases enjoyment, participation, and community health. We look forward to welcoming our members back to a modernised and more inclusive fitness room very soon.' While the fitness room will be closed to the public from Tuesday, 1 July, it is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, 15 July, with the reopening time to be confirmed via Môn Actif's social media channels. All other facilities at Holyhead Leisure Centre will remain open as usual throughout the refurbishment. To support members during this period, Gym and Swim Direct Debit members will have free access to fitness classes at Holyhead Leisure Centre (bookings via reception). Members are also reminded that they can use fitness rooms at Amlwch, Plas Arthur and David Hughes Leisure Centres during the closure.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Wizz Air receives first Airbus A321XLR aircraft powered by RTX's Pratt & Whitney GTF™ Engines
Airline will become first operator of the GTF-powered aircraft HAMBURG, Germany, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a ceremony at Airbus' A320 Final Assembly Line today, Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, joined with Airbus and Wizz Air Hungary Ltd. (Wizz Air) to celebrate delivery of the airline's first A321XLR aircraft. The delivery marks a significant milestone as Wizz Air becomes the first operator of the A321XLR powered by GTF engines. "The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR brings new value to the market segment, expanding growth opportunities for our airline customers – including Wizz Air as the first of many operators," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "This delivery underscores the benefits the GTF engine offers with its world-class fuel efficiency and operating economics." Wizz Air has a total of 47 GTF-powered A321XLR aircraft on order. Additionally, Pratt & Whitney currently powers the airline's fleet of 110 A321neo family aircraft with GTF engines, and 67 A320ceo family aircraft with IAE V2500® engines. Speaking at the ceremony, Wizz Air Chief Corporate Officer Owain Jones said: "The arrival of our first A321XLR is a defining moment for Wizz Air and our passengers. This aircraft is one of the great results of our two decades long successful cooperation with Airbus that brings a revolution to air travel, enabling us to offer non-stop intercontinental routes at unbeatable prices while maintaining our commitment to efficiency and sustainability. Our customers will enjoy state-of-the-art cabin features, a quieter ride, and the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class. The future of travel is here, and we're just getting started!" Globally, 13 customers have selected GTF engines to power more than 200 A321XLR aircraft. To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. The next evolution of the GTF engine, the GTF Advantage – which recently received U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification for the Airbus A320neo family and is on track for first engine deliveries later this year – is particularly well suited for the A321XLR with its higher take-off thrust capability. About Pratt & WhitneyPratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more visit About RTX RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@ View original content: SOURCE RTX
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Wizz Air receives first Airbus A321XLR aircraft powered by RTX's Pratt & Whitney GTF™ Engines
Airline will become first operator of the GTF-powered aircraft HAMBURG, Germany, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a ceremony at Airbus' A320 Final Assembly Line today, Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, joined with Airbus and Wizz Air Hungary Ltd. (Wizz Air) to celebrate delivery of the airline's first A321XLR aircraft. The delivery marks a significant milestone as Wizz Air becomes the first operator of the A321XLR powered by GTF engines. "The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR brings new value to the market segment, expanding growth opportunities for our airline customers – including Wizz Air as the first of many operators," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "This delivery underscores the benefits the GTF engine offers with its world-class fuel efficiency and operating economics." Wizz Air has a total of 47 GTF-powered A321XLR aircraft on order. Additionally, Pratt & Whitney currently powers the airline's fleet of 110 A321neo family aircraft with GTF engines, and 67 A320ceo family aircraft with IAE V2500® engines. Speaking at the ceremony, Wizz Air Chief Corporate Officer Owain Jones said: "The arrival of our first A321XLR is a defining moment for Wizz Air and our passengers. This aircraft is one of the great results of our two decades long successful cooperation with Airbus that brings a revolution to air travel, enabling us to offer non-stop intercontinental routes at unbeatable prices while maintaining our commitment to efficiency and sustainability. Our customers will enjoy state-of-the-art cabin features, a quieter ride, and the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class. The future of travel is here, and we're just getting started!" Globally, 13 customers have selected GTF engines to power more than 200 A321XLR aircraft. To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. The next evolution of the GTF engine, the GTF Advantage – which recently received U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification for the Airbus A320neo family and is on track for first engine deliveries later this year – is particularly well suited for the A321XLR with its higher take-off thrust capability. About Pratt & WhitneyPratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more visit About RTX RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@ View original content: SOURCE RTX Sign in to access your portfolio