Wizz Air plans charter flights between the UK and US

Wizz Air has submitted an application for a licence to operate flights between the United Kingdom and the United States. If the regulatory bodies approve this application, the European short-haul airline intends to provide one-off charter services for football fans from England and Scotland to attend this year’s FIFA World Cup.

In a recent statement, the London-listed carrier confirmed its plans. The company noted that the proposed operations would primarily be charter-based. It remains uncertain whether Wizz Air will transition to scheduled flights at a later date, as this would depend on an evaluation of costs and demand.

The aviation sector has seen numerous challenges for low-cost carriers attempting transatlantic services. Historical attempts, such as those by Freddie Laker’s Skytrain and Norwegian Air, illustrate the significant hurdles involved. Wizz Air’s current situation does not differ significantly from these past efforts, as the company must navigate various financial and regulatory challenges.

Wizz Air has previously completed transatlantic flights when the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban chartered one of their aircraft for a meeting in Washington. The airline currently employs the Airbus A321XLR, capable of operating on long-distance routes, including the existing service between London Gatwick and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This aircraft type has proven effective on transatlantic routes for other carriers.

The prospect of launching scheduled transatlantic services remains uncertain for Wizz Air. Industry experts question whether such operations can be financially viable, particularly for low-cost airlines. The ability to secure flight slots and attract enough passengers to fill premium seats is crucial for the success of any future initiatives.