In a significant development for budget-conscious travellers, Wizz Air has submitted a formal application to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) seeking authorisation to operate flights between the United Kingdom and the United States. This long-anticipated strategic move by the European low-cost carrier could ultimately unlock cheaper transatlantic travel options for passengers.
Formal Application for Foreign Air Carrier Permit
The airline's UK subsidiary has officially requested a foreign air carrier permit from the US DOT. This permit would grant Wizz Air the legal authority to conduct both scheduled passenger services and charter flights across the Atlantic Ocean. For the initial phase, the airline has indicated a primary focus on launching passenger charter services, with flight schedules expected to adapt to seasonal demand patterns.
Seeking Full Open Skies Agreement Rights
Notably, Wizz Air's application seeks the complete suite of rights available under the existing US-UK Open Skies Agreement. Securing these rights would provide the airline with crucial operational flexibility, allowing it to potentially introduce scheduled flight services in the future without the need to re-enter a lengthy regulatory approval process. The carrier has also formally requested an expedited review of its application, aiming to commence charter operations at the earliest possible opportunity.
Potential Impact on Transatlantic Travel Market
Regulatory approval could herald a new era of competition on long-haul routes traditionally dominated by full-service legacy airlines. The entry of a prominent ultra-low-cost carrier like Wizz Air into the UK-US market is poised to exert downward pressure on airfares and expand choice for travellers accustomed to its budget-friendly model. The airline asserts that gaining approval will foster "greater travel choices, more service options and increased competition," delivering tangible benefits to passengers in both nations.
Fleet Capability and Market Entry Strategy
Wizz Air's UK-based fleet currently comprises 21 Airbus A321 aircraft, which includes three of the extended-range A321XLR models specifically engineered for transatlantic operations. While the airline has not yet disclosed specific route details or proposed start dates, the submission of this application represents a major procedural milestone towards its entry into the competitive UK-US aviation market.
Introduction of 'Wizz Class' Premium Service
This transatlantic ambition follows the recent launch of Wizz Air's new 'Wizz Class' ticket product, designed to offer premium, business-style features for an additional fee. The service, which underwent a successful trial in December, is now available for purchase on selected routes to and from key European cities including London Luton, London Gatwick, Budapest, and Warsaw.
Passengers opting for Wizz Class enjoy a bundle of enhanced amenities:
- Priority boarding privileges.
- The ability to block an adjacent middle seat (specifically seats 1B or 1E) for increased personal space.
- Additional legroom afforded by the first-row seating.
- A complimentary snack and a non-alcoholic drink served onboard.
- Allowance for two cabin bags.
Silvia Mosquera, Chief Commercial Officer at Wizz Air, commented on the product's rationale: "Business travel is growing across our network, and we've listened to what our passengers want. They're asking for a bit more space and speed, but they don't want to pay legacy airline prices for business class."
The Wizz Class service is offered as a dynamic-priced add-on during the booking process for Smart and Plus fare types, with prices starting from approximately £43. This product development underscores the airline's strategy to cater to a broader passenger base while maintaining its core low-cost operational model.
