Hungarian Wizz Air to conquer India

In a strategic move that has taken many by surprise, Wizz Air is gearing up to make a significant mark in the Indian aviation industry. The airline seems to be exploring various scenarios to conquer Indian airspace, and recent developments suggest that this might happen sooner than anticipated.

License approval and future challenges

As mentioned in Budflyer’s recent Facebook post, Wizz Air’s Maltese subsidiary has recently secured a license from ENAC, the Italian National Civil Aviation Organisation. This license grants permission for the operation of up to 7 flights per week between Italy and India. However, there is a catch – the license is currently valid only for the upcoming 2023/2024 winter season. This limited timeframe adds an element of urgency to Wizz Air’s plans for expansion in the Indian market.

Despite obtaining the license, Wizz Air faces some significant hurdles in executing its Indian venture seamlessly. Notably, the airline does not possess an aircraft capable of covering the considerable distance between Italy and India without the need for a layover. Adding to this difficulty is the postponed arrival of the A321XLR aircraft, a plane that Wizz Air had designated for its long-haul operations.

Technical assistance form the Middle East

To overcome the existing constraints on aircraft, industry insiders propose that Wizz Air may opt for introducing layover flights as a temporary measure during the initial stages of entering the Indian market. This temporary approach allows the airline to kickstart operations while awaiting the delivery of the A321XLR, a long-range, narrow-body aircraft that promises enhanced efficiency.

In an effort to ensure the feasibility of layover flights, Wizz Air is investigating the potential of utilising its bases in Saudi Arabia or Abu Dhabi to obtain technical support. These locations, strategically positioned, could serve as crucial stopover points, ensuring a smooth transition for flights between Italy and India.

Looking ahead despite hurdles

While navigating its strategic move, recent seismic activity on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula has prompted flight cancellations and adjustments for various airlines, including Wizz Air. Crucially, these disruptions are unrelated to Wizz Air’s license approval or aircraft constraints; they result from adverse weather conditions rather than seismic activity. Travellers are urged to stay updated through Keflavík Airport’s website, HVG reports.

As Wizz Air navigates these challenges, both in Iceland and on the path to Indian market entry, the airline’s strategic move reflects a commitment to overcoming obstacles and making a substantial impact on the competitive landscape of the aviation sector. The evolving circumstances showcase the dynamic nature of the industry, where adaptability is key to success. Only time will reveal the outcome of Wizz Air’s ambitious venture as it manages unforeseen weather disruptions while pursuing strategic expansion into new markets. If you wish to end the holiday season with a mini-break, check out these extremely cheap flights from Hungary.

Source: Budflyer