Wizz Air said on Friday it has received permits allowing it to operate flights to the United States from the United Kingdom, enabling the budget carrier to run charter services — although it currently has no plans to launch regular commercial routes.
The airline said the approval will allow it to provide charter flights for European football teams and supporters travelling to the upcoming FIFA World Cup, as well as tour operators organising group trips to the U.S.
Despite a recent dip in interest in some traditional American tourist destinations, airlines on both sides of the Atlantic remain optimistic that visitor numbers will rebound this year. The World Cup, which will feature matches across 10 U.S. states including Missouri and Massachusetts, is expected to boost travel demand across North America.
However, Wizz Air’s shares fell more than 3% by 12:03 GMT on Friday amid a broader selloff in airline stocks, as carriers grapple with the financial impact of escalating conflict involving the U.S., Israel and Iran.
The airline has previously warned that the Middle East conflict could reduce its fiscal 2026 net profit by around €50m ($57.83m).
Wizz Air’s UK division applied for a foreign air carrier permit from the U.S. Department of Transportation in January, paving the way for the newly approved charter operations.
