Wizz Air Management Downplays US Flight Applications, No Regular Services Expected

Wizz Air’s Chief Financial Officer, Ian Malin, recently shared new insights regarding the airline’s recent application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for the ability to operate flights between the UK and the U.S.

During the Q3 2026 earnings call, Malin downplayed the importance of this application, emphasizing that Wizz Air does not have immediate plans for scheduled transatlantic services.

The application is linked to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to occur in the U.S. from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Malin noted that the airline is exploring options for charter flights related to this major sporting event, which is anticipated to draw numerous fans from across the Atlantic.

Wizz Air has the flexibility to react quickly to fluctuating demand, thanks to the capabilities of the A321XLR. “You sell the flight in advance; you collect the cash in advance; you price it accordingly, and the profits are locked in,” Malin explained. He mentioned that this illustrates their opportunistic approach to diversifying revenue streams, though he does not expect a significant financial impact from these initiatives.

He further clarified, “The application allows for you to select a checkbox for scheduled, and that checkbox was selected, but I think somebody’s taken that far out of proportion.”

CEO Joszef Váradi also commented on the U.S. DOT application during the earnings call, stating that it’s simply about obtaining necessary permissions for future needs. Váradi highlighted a recent official visit by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who traveled on a Wizz Air UK-operated aircraft.

Wizz Air UK stands out within the group as the most capable subsidiary for such operations, being recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for regulatory purposes. “Hungary and Malta, the other airlines, are under EASA governance, but EASA is not recognized by the U.S. as a governing body. They only recognize national authorities, not European ones,” Váradi noted.

He also pointed to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as a future opportunity for increased demand for U.S. charter flights but insisted that any operations stemming from these events would likely have a minimal impact on the airline’s overall financials.

What do you think about Wizz Air’s plans for charter flights? Would you consider flying with them for upcoming major events?