Fierce resistance erupts against Wizz Air’s new base, which could unlock exciting exotic destinations

There is strong resistance in Israel against Wizz Air opening a base at Ben Gurion Airport and becoming an equal player alongside Israeli airlines on the market. The transport ministry, which appears to be the mastermind and driving force behind the project, believes the Hungarian low-cost airline could help lower prices, while some airlines and regulators warn of potential risks associated with the Hungarian budget carrier. Wizz Air’s leadership is cautious but seems open to the idea.

Israeli airlines oppose Wizz Air

In August, we wrote that Israel’s national airline, El Al, considers Wizz Air’s presence at Ben Gurion a national security risk, with Israir and Arkia also protesting. Their main concern is that foreign airlines might abandon the country during wartime—as the airline did during the Iranian conflict—leaving residents stranded, with no option but sea or air travel to leave.

At the same time, The Jerusalem Post pointed out that El Al itself acted unfairly after the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023. Having found itself with a monopoly, it deliberately raised ticket prices, prompting a compensation lawsuit demanding around HUF 250 million (EUR 651 thousand).

The Israeli transport ministry seems eager to avoid such a monopoly. A delegation, including the head of the Israel Airports Authority, recently travelled to Budapest to negotiate with Wizz Air’s headquarters. Their goal is for Wizz Air’s new base at Ben Gurion to help bring down prices.

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Exploring the possibilities

The major Israeli English-language news site Ynetnews reported on this visit and sent journalists to Budapest to cover the developments. They praised the airline, noting it was the second-largest airline after El Al before the Gaza war began.

According to Ynetnews, the transport ministry faced heavy criticism over aviation during the Gaza conflict, which is why it wants to increase competition by welcoming a new airline.

András Radó, Wizz Air’s communication head, said a base opening wouldn’t happen soon since they are still assessing if the move makes economic sense. The airline faces several challenges—for example, as a foreign carrier, it cannot currently hire Israeli staff, which would be crucial to reducing costs. Moreover, it would need to comply with strict Israeli security regulations managed by its rival, El Al. The Hungarian low-cost would also want to park its planes at the airport and carry out minor repairs there.