Wizz Air called a national security threat in Israel
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Israeli airline El Al has claimed that Hungarian budget carrier Wizz Air’s plan to establish a base in Israel would not only harm domestic airlines but could also pose a national security risk to the country. A letter sent to local authorities depicts the low-cost carrier as a potential danger to Israel’s security.
But is Wizz Air a national security risk?
The Jerusalem Post published an in-depth report on the contents of El Al’s letter. According to the article, the letter was signed by El Al’s Chief Executive Officer, Dina Ben Tal Ganancia, and the Chairman of its Board. Airportal reports that it was addressed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Transport Miri Regev.
The letter argues that granting Wizz Air base status in Israel would cause significant damage to the domestic aviation industry. With such status, the Hungarian low-cost airline would be entitled to access Ben Gurion Airport’s facilities, station crew members overnight, and secure more favourable departure slots.
Risk of pushing out Israeli Airlines
El Al contends that a Wizz Air base could create a dangerous precedent, potentially forcing domestic airlines out of the Israeli market. In times of conflict—such as those witnessed this summer—foreign carriers often suspend operations, leaving Israel isolated. El Al emphasised that during the recent escalation in hostilities, it was only Israeli carriers that maintained the nation’s vital “air bridges.”
The letter also included a veiled warning: should Wizz Air be granted base status, Israeli airlines might consider relocating operations abroad.
Unfair advantage for Wizz Air?
Wizz Air did suspend its Tel Aviv services in June during a period of heightened regional tensions. However, as the letter acknowledges, other international airlines also halted flights at that time. On 8 August—more than a month earlier than expected—the airline resumed operations. As reported yesterday, Wizz Air is also set to restart flights to Amman, the Jordanian capital, next week.
