Low-cost airline Wizz Air has submitted a request to the US authorities, through its subsidiary Wizz Air UK, for approval to operate flights from the United Kingdom to the United States under the UK–US Open Skies agreement, which was approved by the US authorities. The move comes after the company decided a few months ago to limit its operations to the Middle East.
However, this opening to the US is considered a test entry into the transatlantic market, mainly with charter flights for football teams, World Cup fans and organised tourist groups, at least initially. The company emphasises that it has no current plans for transatlantic passenger flights on a regular basis, but sees this move as an opportunity to test and gradually expand its international network.
Affordable tickets for everyone
Wizz Air appears to be considering entering the transatlantic market with the aim of low-cost transatlantic flights, using the new Airbus A321XLR, which reduces fuel costs per seat by up to 30%. In the future, this could allow it to offer tickets from around €99 one-way and round-trip around €300–450, significantly cheaper than traditional carriers. However, nothing is certain yet, and this move is currently a strategic test for new markets.
Although regular transatlantic flights will not be immediately available, this move demonstrates Wizz Air's strategic ambitions to expand its network internationally, paving the way for more affordable transatlantic travel options, while continuing to strengthen its position on the European aviation scene.
This article first appeared, in Greek, in the most recent edition of Hermes Airports' Flight Mode online publication. Click here to view it.
