BUDAPEST, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air announced the order for 20 long-haul Airbus 321XLR aircraft here on Wednesday.

"Wizz Air Holdings Plc, the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe, as part of the Indigo Partners deal, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus S.A.S. relating to exercising a part of its existing options for the purchase of 20 Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The present order will be delivered over the course of three years starting in 2023," the company said in a statement sent to Xinhua.

Wizz Air added that the A321XLR variant would be operated with 239 seats, the same as the A321neo to ensure full fleet commonality with Wizz Air's existing fleet.

"The XLR aircraft can also be utilized on Wizz Air's existing network with the same efficiency. Completion of the order remains subject to approval by Wizz Air shareholders, as appropriate," according to the statement.

"The A321XLR is the most cost-efficient aircraft of its type and represents a significant opportunity for Wizz Air to further expand its network and connect points on the WIZZ map that are currently out of reach, given the enhanced range capability of the aircraft," Jozsef Varadi, Wizz Air's Chief Executive Officer, was quoted by the statement as saying.

"Today, we are flying a number of 5-6 hour routes with great satisfaction to our customers, so the XLR will extend our outstanding value and service proposition on routes of 7-8 hours of flying," Varadi said.

Wednesday's announcement will bring Wizz Air's outstanding firm orders with Airbus to 276 aircraft for deliveries through 2026.