Wizz Air has launched its second pilot training center at Rome Fiumicino Airport, Italy. This new facility complements the airline’s existing Budapest location and will provide annual recurrent training for over 4,800 pilots.
The opening follows the success of Wizz Air’s first centre in Budapest and comes as the airline continues to grow its operations across Europe. Wizz Air recently announced it will be the first ultra low-cost carrier to operate the Airbus A321XLR aircraft, extending network reach to distant destinations.
On October 1, 2024, the center’s grand opening was formally officiated. It featured speeches by Wizz Air CEO József Váradi, Aeroporti di Roma CEO Marco Troncone, and CAE’s Vice President of EMEA Commercial Aviation, James Cahill.
The event was attended by industry leaders, local officials, and media representatives, highlighting the significance of this investment in Italy’s aviation sector.
Wizz Air CEO József Váradi stated: “Our new Rome training center reflects our investment in aviation’s future and our staff. Pilots are crucial to our operations, and this facility ensures they receive top-notch, rigorous training.”
“This investment strengthens our long-term presence in Italy, a key market where we already operate five bases with over 1000 crew members and 20+ efficient, sustainable aircraft.”
New Training Centre Near T1
The 2,500+ square meter facility, located near Terminal 1, features briefing rooms, theoretical training areas, and a simulator hall. It houses two state-of-the-art CAE Airbus A320 family full-flight simulators, with a third planned for 2025.
These simulators offer high-fidelity visuals, immersive cockpits, and realistic flight dynamics to support Wizz Air’s growing operations.
The facility’s strategic location allows for seamless integration with the airline’s operational needs, enabling pilots to transition efficiently between training sessions and actual flights.
Aeroporti di Roma CEO Marco Troncone provided further comment. “This advanced training center, is developed at our award-winning airport through a major investment by one of Europe’s fastest-growing airlines. It showcases Fiumicino’s attractiveness for long-term aeronautical development.”
“This project aligns with our strategic vision, where innovation and human capital development are key to sustainable growth. It may also create new professional opportunities for the local community.”
Troncone highlighted the collaboration between Wizz Air and local airport infrastructure. He emphasized Rome Fiumicino’s status as a 5-Star Skytrax airport. The airport was named as ACI Europe’s Best Hub in Europe for the sixth time since 2018.
This partnership will elevate the airport’s reputation as a hub for aviation excellence. It will also contribute to the region’s economic growth.
Budapest Training Facility Success
The second centre will build on the Budapest training facility’s success. The primary centre has provided over 98,000 training flight hours in six years. Wizz Air’s Rome Fiumicino centre further secures the airline’s position as a European aviation leader. This expansion demonstrates Wizz Air’s commitment to ongoing employee training and development. The new facility is also equipped with the latest environmental technologies. This aligns with the airline’s sustainability goals and reducing its carbon footprint.
As Wizz Air continues to expand its route network and fleet, the Rome training centre will play a crucial role in supporting the airline’s flightcrew training regimen. The investment in this state-of-the-art facility not only benefits Wizz Air but also contributes to the overall advancement of pilot training in the European aviation industry.
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