London Luton Airport (LLA) continues to lead the way in the adoption of quieter, more fuel-efficient "next-generation" aircraft, with the highest proportion of passenger flights operated using these advanced models than any other major European airport.

Data from aviation intelligence specialist RDC Aviation shows that between March 2024 and February 2025, almost half (47.8%) of commercial passenger flights departing from LLA were operated using Airbus neo or Boeing Max variants, which reduce emissions by up to 20% and have a reduced noise footprint.

The latest data also shows the number of next-generation aircraft operating at LLA is continuing to steadily increase, making up more than 50% of all passenger flights since November 2024. In January 2025, 56% of all passenger flights were operated using neo or MAX variant.

LLA has worked closely with all of its major airlines to significantly increase the use of next-generation aircraft. Wizz Air’s Luton fleet is now entirely comprised of Airbus A321neos, while easyJet has also expanded its use of Airbus neo. Jet2 will also operate two Airbus A321neos when it begins operations this April. Meanwhile, Ryanair has increased the number of Boeing 737 8200 (MAX) aircraft.  

Alberto Martin, Chief Executive Officer at London Luton Airport, said: “This latest analysis from RDC, highlights the significant strides London Luton Airport is making in supporting airlines to operate more sustainably. Not only are we working closely with our airlines to drive fleet modernisation and emissions reductions, we’re also making progress with our commitment to achieve Net Zero airport emissions by 2040. With that in mind, plans to expand LLA, currently waiting Government approval, set a new standard for sustainability through a legally binding ‘Green Controlled Growth’ framework. This pioneering approach places strict limits on noise, carbon emissions, air quality, and surface access impact ensuring that as we grow, we do so in a way that respects both the environment and our local communities.”

Yvonne Moynihan, Corporate and ESG Officer at Wizz Air, added: “We have invested millions of pounds in next generation aircraft technology, with 100% of our UK fleet now the fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo, and the youngest in Europe. We have also invested in Sustainable Aviation Fuel and its production in the UK. Although progress is being made towards decarbonisation through technology investment, Government delays in infrastructure development and outdated regulatory frameworks are hampering the industry's progress. Together with London Luton Airport, a key base for Wizz Air in the UK and the home of our UK head office, we believe we have a vital role to play in driving decarbonisation efforts."

For more information on London Luton Airport’s sustainability strategy and its commitment to Net Zero by 2040, visit: https://www.london-luton.co.uk/corporate/community/net-zero.

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About London Luton Airport

London Luton Airport (LLA) is one of the UK’s busiest airports, carrying over 16.7 million passengers in 2024. The airport is operated by a consortium, of which the majority shareholder is AENA, the world’s largest airport operator, and InfraBridge, a leading infrastructure investment manager. Airlines include easyJet, Wizz Air, Jet2, Ryanair, Tui, FlyOne, Sun Express and El Al.

The Luton Airport Express is a dedicated train service that allows passengers to travel from central London to the LLA terminal in around 30 minutes. The Luton Airport Express runs from St Pancras International to Luton Airport Parkway station and connects seamlessly with the DART, an electrically powered people mover that connects to the airport terminal in less than four minutes.

Last year, LLA was named European Airport of the Year (10-25 million passengers) by ACI EUROPE. 

In 2023, LLA also became only the third major UK airport to achieve Level 4 of the globally recognised Airport Carbon Accreditation scheme, demonstrating that it is ‘transforming its operations to achieve carbon reductions in line with global climate goals’. With a maximum score of 100 and a five-star rating, LLA has been ranked as a sector leader for three consecutive years in the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) benchmark of sustainability governance management and performance of major infrastructure assets worldwide.

To learn about the progress London Luton Airport is making across its sustainability programme please click here.

Further information on London Luton Airport can be found here: https://www.london-luton.co.uk/

Contact Details:

Contact Details:
London Luton Airport – PR agency:
E: LLA@tinmancomms.com

London Luton Airport Press Office
T: 01582 395333
E: pressoffice@ltn.aero

URL: https://mediahub.london-luton.co.uk/news/31032025/lla-leads-europe-in-next-gen-aircraft-usage