Budapest Airport

Budapest Airport sets sights on North American, Indian, and Southeast Asian routes

Budapest Airport travel tourism TUI (Copy)

Budapest Airport achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, setting new records and solidifying its position as a major regional hub. Francois Berisot, CEO of Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport, shared these achievements at the 32nd Tourism Season Opening Gala.

Record-breaking performance

The airport experienced unprecedented growth in 2024, with passenger traffic reaching 17.6 million, surpassing the previous record of 16.2 million set in 2019 by 8.7%. According to the report of Turizmus.com, cargo volume also saw a significant increase of 48.8%, with the airport handling nearly 300,000 tons of air freight. Throughout the year, monthly passenger numbers consistently exceeded 1 million, and in October, Budapest Airport registered the highest traffic growth among Europe’s top 50 airports.

Expanded connectivity

Budapest Airport significantly enhanced its global reach in 2024, with 43 airlines operating flights to 142 destinations. The top destinations included London, Istanbul, Milan, and Paris, while new routes were launched to Faro, Lyon, Marrakesh, Brasov, and Bilbao.

China and Middle East boom

The airport saw substantial growth in connections to China and the Middle East. Chinese passenger traffic nearly tripled, with direct flights now available to seven Chinese cities, offering 21 weekly flights. Middle East traffic increased by 13%, and a new route to Kuwait City is set to start in June 2025, bringing the total Middle Eastern destinations to eight.

Future expansion plans

Budapest Airport is poised for further growth, with plans to increase flight frequencies to Germany, France, Spain, and the UK. New routes are also in the works, including SAS flights to Copenhagen and EasyJet services to Bordeaux and Nantes. The airport is also in advanced negotiations for North American, Indian, and Southeast Asian routes. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 20 million by 2030.

Infrastructure development

To accommodate future growth, Budapest Airport is planning significant upgrades. Preparation for the construction of Terminal 3 has begun, with the terminal expansion set to be implemented in phases following careful planning.

Government collaboration

Berisot highlighted the strong partnership between Budapest Airport and the Hungarian government. The airport returned to state ownership in 2024, and the collaboration aims to further develop the airport.

Tourism initiatives

At the gala, other significant announcements were made. Minister of National Economy Márton Nagy announced the creation of a tourism bank and a new hotel support program. Additionally, Olivér Csendes, CEO of Visit Hungary, revealed plans for the Tourism Summit and the establishment of the Budapest MICE Fund event fund. Francois Berisot concluded by stating, “Thanks to the successful cooperation with the Hungarian state and the expertise of Vinci Airport, a new golden age is beginning at Budapest Airport”.

Read also:

Attention! Traffic restrictions due to the renovation of the Budapest Airport bridge

Budapest Airport travel abroad

As the next stage in Budapest Airport’s airport development series, the bridge leading to Budapest Airport and the area in front of the building used for boarding and alighting will be renewed. Traffic restrictions are expected on the arrivals level from 20 February until the beginning of the summer.

According to the announcement, the renovation of the bridge leading to the airport is expected to be completed by June 2025. There will be a major change in traffic patterns, with cars not allowed on the bridge from 20 February. Passengers should expect traffic restrictions at the arrival level. Passengers will not be allowed to drive up to the departure (upper) level of the airport, and the area used for boarding and alighting will be reduced on the arrival (lower) level, according to a statement issued by Budapest Airport. They recommends that passengers arriving by car use the Terminal Car Park marked with green signs and the City Break Car Park marked with purple signs.

budapest airport Attention! Traffic restrictions due to the renovation of the Budapest Airport bridge
Attention! Traffic restrictions due to the renovation of the Budapest Airport bridge. Source: Budapest AIrport

Passengers arriving by public transport should also be prepared for the change. It is planned to move the terminus of the 100E bus to the outer curve of the arrivals level by June 2025. The 200E bus will stop at its usual stop during the renovation. Buses not operated by BKK will be able to use the Bus Terminal instead of the departure level.

Due to the change in traffic regulations, motorists are asked to approach the airport with greater caution and in accordance with the changed road signs. As we wrote earlier, Good news: Preparations for the construction of Budapest Airport Terminal 3 under way, details HERE.

As we wrote today, new direct flights announced from Budapest to East Midlands and Newcastle, details HERE.

New direct flights announced from Budapest to East Midlands and Newcastle

newcastle

Budapest Airport, part of VINCI Airports’ network, has launched new flights from Budapest to East Midlands Airport and Newcastle in England. The two new destinations will be added to the Jet2.com airline’s current services to Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds Bradford in the winter schedule from October 2025, further strengthening tourism between Hungary and the UK.

According to Budapest Airport, in the winter schedule, Jet2.com is launching flights to East Midlands Airport and Newcastle, the latter being a brand-new English destination in the Budapest schedule. The two connections will operate from October 2025 to April 2026, in response to the growing demand for flights between Hungary and the UK. With the flights to East Midlands Airport and Newcastle, Jet2.com now offers six UK destinations from Budapest. The flights operating twice a week offer Hungarian passengers the opportunity to take shorter city breaks or explore the English countryside and the area famous for the legend of Robin Hood.

jet2 Budapest newcastle

“Budapest Airport’s development strategy focuses on diversification, i.e. building a route network that is as varied as possible, to meet different needs. Jet2.com’s scheduled flights are a perfect fit for this objective,” said Francois Berisot, the chief executive officer of Budapest Airport. He added:

“The wide range of services available between the two countries are first and foremost a testament to Hungary’s attractiveness as a tourist destination, responding to the growing demand for inbound tourism, which is expected to grow further in the future, thanks to the new flights.”

read also:

Second female body recovered from River Dee – details HERE.

Budapest–Seoul flights reduced: one direct route ends, widening travel gap with Korea

seoul korea

LOT Polish Airlines will discontinue its flights between Seoul and Budapest from the beginning of the summer timetable.

The Polish airline opened flights between Budapest and Seoul in September 2019, and also operated flights to New York and planned to open a base at the Hungarian capital’s airport with short-haul flights. Flights to Seoul and New York were temporarily suspended due to the pandemic, and only the South Korean route was later reinstated, with the number of flights being reduced to two per week periodically.

According to the Polish portal Rynek Lotniczy, the suspension of its Warsaw-Beijing flights will be extended in addition to the cancellation of the Budapest-Seoul direct flight. This means that there will be six flights a week to Seoul from Warsaw and one flight a week from Wrocław.According to the portal, LOT will shift capacity to North American routes, increasing flights to destinations such as Chicago and Toronto.

The only direct flight to Seoul from Budapest is now operated by Korean Air, which operates four times a week. The last time this flight was in the news, a Korean woman threw a tantrum on the plane, and after three hours of her family and flight attendants failing to calm her down, the pilots made an emergency landing in Kazakhstan, following safety protocol. At Astana airport, police officers were waiting for the woman who, after being arrested, simply fell asleep and when she woke up, claimed she had no memory of what had happened, Korea’s SBS News reported.

As we wrote earlier, there was also talk in October that a South Korean airline T’way is expanding its European network, which will lead to the arrival of its planes in Hungary in the future, details HERE.

Budapest Airport welcomes 2 new flights and a British café’s grand debut

Budapest Airport

British budget airlines operating flights between the UK and European, Asian, American and African destinations announced two new flights from Budapest Airport to destinations in England. Meanwhile, the British SOHO Coffee opened its first Hungarian café at Budapest Airport. Moreover, Wizz Air cancelled flights from Marosvásárhely (Târgu Mureș) to London.

2 new flights from Budapest Airport

According to Budflyer, a Hungarian travel news media outlet, the British Jet2 announced two new flights connecting Budapest Airport with English destinations East Midlands and Newcastle. The flights will appear in their 2025-2026 winter schedule. The East Midlands flight will operate between 10 October and 27 April twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. The Newcastle flight will carry passengers between 9 October and 26 April, on Thursdays and Sundays.

Jet 2 flights from Budapest Airport
Photo: FB/Budflyer

SOHO Coffee opened 1st Hungarian café at Budapest Airport

Budflyer also wrote that the UK-based SOHO Coffee chain opened its first shop at Budapest Airport, the first in Hungary. That is their 12th airport café worldwide. In their statement, they said the café opening was an important milestone in the expansion of the chain. SOHO Coffee focuses on premium coffees and fresh foods and is becoming a more and more appreciated trademark in Europe and beyond. The operator of the Budapest café is the SSP Group.

SOHO Coffee Budapest Airport
SOHO Coffee at Budapest Airport. Photo: FB/Budflyer

Wizz Air London flights suspended from Marosvásárhely

According to Maszol, Wizz Air suspended their flights between Marosvásárhely, a city in Central Romania populated by more than 40 thousand Hungarians (35% of the total population), and London. András Peti, the director of the Transilvania Airport, said the decision was unilateral, and Wizz Air did not comment on the decision, as they regularly fail to provide explanations. Maszol wrote the Hungarian low-cost airline operated 5 Budapest and 3 London flights from “Szeklerland’s capital.”

The Hungarian news outlet suggested the Hungarian airline decided on the cancellation due to the low passenger numbers on the route. Mr Peti said they have regional competitors (Kolozsvár – Cluj Napoca, Szeben – Sibiu, Brassó – Brasov), which all have scheduled flights to London.

The last London flight will take off in March. From April, only the Budapest flights will remain from Marosvásárhely, but in June, charter flights will also commute from there to Antalya and later to Crete.

Read also:

Smartwings to expand routes from Hungary!

smartwings

The Czech Smartwings Group’s Hungarian subsidiary, Smartwings Hungary, will introduce several new routes during the 2025 summer schedule from both Budapest and Debrecen.

According to the Aeroroutes timetable analysis website, the carrier will add Almería and Bodrum from Budapest and Barcelona and Tirana from Debrecen.

New routes from Budapest

Almería (Spain)
Flights will operate once a week from late May to early October, with an increased frequency of two weekly flights (Mondays and Saturdays) between 16 June and 22 September.

Bodrum (Turkey)
Between 4 June and 24 September, Smartwings will fly once a week on Wednesdays from Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport to the popular Turkish holiday resort.

New routes from Debrecen

Barcelona (Spain)
From early June to late September, Smartwings plans to operate a weekly service on Thursdays between Debrecen and Barcelona.

Tirana (Albania)
Also from early June to late September, Boeing 737-800 aircraft will connect Debrecen with the Albanian capital every Monday. These additions expand the range of holiday and city-break destinations available to Hungarian travellers, while also enhancing the international connectivity of both Budapest and Debrecen airports.

Read also:

New type of aviation fuel available at Budapest Airport

Budapest Airport new aviation fuel

Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, has achieved an important milestone in sustainability. Budapest Airport’s subsidiary, Airport Fuel Supply Ltd., has successfully passed the audit criteria for the introduction of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at Ferenc Liszt International Airport. Certification is a prerequisite for the airport operator to provide airlines with the minimum 2% sustainable aviation fuel from 1 January 2025, as required by the relevant regulation.

New aviation fuel at Budapest Airport

One of the biggest current challenges for airports operators is combining the increase of air mobility demand with the need to protect the climate. In addition to all actions implemented to reduce direct airport emissions (such as energy efficiency, the electrification of vehicles, the development of renewables, etc.), in the short to medium term, the introduction and wider use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is currently one of the solutions to act on airport scope 3, by reducing aircraft emissions.

Budapest Airport tested the commercial use of SAF in 2023, in cooperation with MOL, Wizz Air and AFS Ltd., with the aim of preparing Budapest Airport’s fuel supply system for the obligation coming into force in 2025, which requires airport operators above a certain level of traffic to provide a minimum 2% sustainable aviation fuel to airlines from the beginning of this year. A prerequisite for fulfilling this obligation is to meet a stringent set of sustainability criteria, which Budapest Airport’s subsidiary, AFS Ltd. successfully passed last November, and thus acquired the required ISCC EU certification.

Budapest Airport new aviation fuel
Photo: Instagram/Budapest Airport

80% less carbon dioxide

The raw materials used in the production of SAF include vegetable or animal fats, that cannot be recycled elsewhere, which are converted into a premium-quality renewable product through special processes, thus reducing the greenhouse gases emitted by aircraft. This new generation of sustainably produced fuel, in its pure form, could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% over its lifecycle, compared to fossil jet fuel. SAF is currently permitted to be blended with conventional fossil-based kerosene of up to 50%, to ensure compatibility with aircraft, engines and fuelling systems. SAF is also compatible with existing airport infrastructure, minimizing additional investments.

“Sustainable aviation fuel emits about 80% less carbon dioxide compared to conventional kerosene and can therefore make a significant contribution to the decarbonisation of the aviation industry,” emphasized Francois Berisot, the CEO of Budapest Airport, who also underlined: “The availability of sustainable aviation fuel at Budapest Airport is a very important milestone and will greatly contribute to the future reduction of Budapest Airport’s indirect carbon emissions from its corporate value chain activities.”

In addition to reducing indirect emissions, and in line with VINCI Airport’s environmental policy, Budapest Airport’s priority is to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions from direct airport operations by over 90% by 2030 at the latest, and achieve Airports Council International’s (ACI Europe) Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 5, which certifies that the airport has reached and maintains a net zero carbon balance in its direct scopes (Scopes 1 and 2) and has addressed indirect emissions sources (Scope 3).

ReFuelEU Aviation promotes the increased use of sustainable aviation fuels, as the single most powerful tool to decrease aviation CO2 emissions. The measure is part of the Fit for 55 package to meet the emissions reduction target of 55% by 2030. It sets requirements for aviation fuel suppliers to gradually increase the share of SAF blended into the conventional aviation fuel supplied at EU airports. The RefuelEU directive requires (at certain airports above certain traffic levels) the provision of at least 2% sustainable aviation fuel for airlines from 01.01.2025.

Read also:

  • Budapest Airport broke all previous records in 2024, says operator
  • New airport in northeast Hungary could open this spring – read more HERE

New direct flights to New York, Washington from Budapest on the horizon?

New flights to New York and Washington from Budapest

According to a statement from Hungary’s Ministry for National Economy, the government—among others—is working on establishing new direct flights between Budapest and major US cities, such as New York and Washington. In the past, the success of such a project would have been highly unlikely due to the lack of support from the Biden administration. Will the Trump administration adopt a different stance? Or does the US government even play a significant role in such decisions? 

North American flights may return in 2025, MTÜ head said

As we previously reported, direct transatlantic flights to New York and Chicago from Budapest were discontinued following the COVID-19 pandemic. Budapest is now one of the few Central European capitals without a direct air connection to the United States or Canada after 2020, despite the sizeable ethnic Hungarian expatriate community in both countries.

A year ago, Zoltán Guller, President of the Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTÜ), predicted the return of North American flights to Budapest Airport by 2025.

In 2024, we reported that despite the absence of direct connections between Hungary and the United States, the number of American tourists visiting Hungary increased by 30% in 2023 compared to the COVID-19-affected year of 2022. This clearly demonstrates a strong demand for transatlantic flights. However, experts agreed that strained relations between the Hungarian government and the Biden administration had hindered the project. With Trump’s inauguration and his well-known friendship with Prime Minister Orbán, the situation might now change.

Budflyer, a Hungarian travel news Facebook page, referenced a statement from the Ministry for National Economy in which the Orbán administration emphasised its efforts to resolve the issue. The statement did not specify a starting date for new flights but cited Washington and New York as potential destinations. It also highlighted the aim of connecting other American metropolises to the Hungarian capital.

New flights to New York and Washington from Budapest
Source: pxhere.com

Strong demand for new direct flights from the USA to Budapest

According to Simple Flying, New York’s JFK Airport is the United States’ primary international gateway to Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. In 2024, JFK introduced new routes to destinations such as Bucharest, the Romanian capital, but Budapest missed out on this opportunity.

Simple Flying compiled a list of the largest unserved markets from JFK and found that Budapest ranked 10th, with over 72,000 passengers annually. The article noted that Budapest had been served by multiple carriers over the past two decades, including Malév until 2008, Delta until 2011, American Airlines briefly in 2011, and LOT Polish Airlines until 2022.

However, the relationship between Poland and Hungary has reached a historic low in recent times, with incidents such as the Hungarian ambassador in Warsaw being declared persona non grata. This followed Hungary’s decision to grant asylum to a former Polish justice minister, who has since relocated to Budapest. As a result, LOT Polish Airlines is unlikely to be the carrier to reintroduce direct flights.

New direct flights to the USA LOT Polish Airlines’ Budapest-Seoul non-stop flight re-launched (Photo Budapest AirportBaranyi Róbert)
Photo: Budapest Airport/Róbert Baranyi)

The media outlet described Budapest as an intriguing destination, noting that direct flights between JFK and Budapest Airport “might perform well during the summer season but would face a limited pool of potential operators”.

Read also:

  • Spending only 3 days in Budapest? Here’s our detailed tour guide!
  • Planning to come to Budapest? Here are 8 tourist traps you should avoid

Ryanair forced landing at Budapest Airport, more than 100 police deployed

New flight from Budapest Ryanair

A Ryanair flight from Copenhagen to Budapest was met with a massive police response upon landing at Liszt Ferenc International Airport on Monday afternoon, following a suspected bomb threat.

The plane’s crew conducted thorough onboard searches mid-flight, and after landing, over 100 police officers, including K9 units and armored vehicles, were deployed to inspect passengers and luggage.

An eyewitness reported that the flight departed with a one-hour delay and that tensions arose when a passenger caused a disturbance. Around 40 minutes from Budapest, the cabin crew instructed passengers to stand while they searched the aircraft and personal belongings. According to Blikk, passengers were required to stay seated with seatbelts fastened for the remainder of the flight, which was expedited, covering the remaining distance in just 20 minutes.

After landing, the plane stopped on the runway, and passengers were initially not allowed to disembark. They were later transported by bus to a secure area for further checks. A woman involved in the pre-flight disturbance was escorted away by police, while other passengers were released without further explanation.

Budapest Airport confirmed that the flight received a bomb threat but landed safely at 12:33 PM local time. Authorities inspected the aircraft and luggage thoroughly before clearing it for normal operations. The incident temporarily closed Runway 1 but caused no major disruptions to airport traffic.

Despite the alarming situation, passengers felt reassured by the strong police presence and noted that officers were professional and courteous throughout the ordeal.

We will update this article if we receive further information on what is happening. Until then, read our latest article about Ryanair: Unexpected Ryanair decision concerning summer 2025 flights affects Hungary

Budapest Airport broke all previous records in 2024, says operator

Budapest ranks as Europe’s best airport for parking

2024 broke all previous records in the history of Budapest Airport; 17.6 million passengers and nearly 300,000 tonnes of air cargo passed through Ferenc Liszt International Airport in 2024, foreshadowing robust passenger growth in the coming years and consolidating the airport’s role as a regional hub. Annual passenger traffic at Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, surpassed the pre-COVID level for the first time, and in anticipation of further growth, owners and management have begun preparations for the construction of Terminal 3, which will ensure a high quality of service for passengers in the long term.

Budapest Airport broke all records

2024 was a very important year in the history of Budapest Airport. After almost 20 years, the airport returned to majority Hungarian ownership; in June, the Hungarian state acquired an 80 percent stake in the airport operator and the French company and world’s leading private airport operator, VINCI Airports a 20 percent share.

Moreover, the airport also broke all previous records by serving 17.6 million arriving and departing passengers in 2024. With 17,574,413 passengers handled last year, annual traffic not only exceeded the 2023 figure by 19,5%, but also surpassed the previous record-breaking 2019 figure by 8.7%. Hungary’s attractiveness as a tourist destination and Hungarians’ appetite for travel were reflected in the airport’s passenger traffic throughout the year, with over 1 million passengers every month, and Budapest Airport recorded the highest traffic growth in October among the 50 busiest European airports.

Budapest ranks as Europe’s best airport for parking
Photo: Facebook / Budapest Airport

Budapest Airport is one of the main airports operated by VINCI Airports that crossed record-breaking thresholds in 2024: 35 million passengers were welcomed at Lisbon, 26 million at Santiago Airport in Chile, 15 million at Edinburgh in the United Kingdom and 8 million at Belgrade in Serbia.

141 destinations, 43 airlines

In the 14 countries where VINCI Airports operates airports, more than 318 million passengers travelled in 2024, 11 million more than in 2019 and nearly 25 million more than in 2023.

At Budapest Airport, 141 destinations were available from 43 airlines in 2024, with London, Istanbul, Milan and Paris being the most popular destinations. Passenger traffic to and from China nearly tripled, and there was also record growth to Italy, Spain and Germany, supported by a number of new destinations and frequency increases on existing routes. Brand new destinations included Faro, Marrakesh and Bilbao, while the number of Chinese cities with direct flights from Budapest increased to five, with 17 flights per week in total. Wizz Air, Ryanair, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines and Turkish Airlines carried the most passengers last year.

The owners expect continued robust growth in the future, supported by VINCI Airports’ excellent airline relationships and extensive network. This factor, combined with Budapest Airport’s airline development work, should result in even more available destinations, including long-haul flights. With 20 million passengers expected by 2030, preparations for the construction of the new Terminal 3 began at the end of last year. The first phase will involve an apron extension, while all elements of the further apron and terminal development are expected to be completed within eight years.

Dynamic growth

“It is also a great pleasure for VINCI Airports to see the dynamic growth of Budapest Airport and last year’s record figures. Hungary has huge potential in tourism, paving the way for growth at the airport,” summarised Francois Berisot, the CEO of Budapest Airport. He added: “Budapest Airport, together with the Hungarian Tourism Agency and the VINCI Airports airline development team, is continuously working on adding new connections that further open up completely new perspectives. The focus remains the same: quality, sustainability, development and growth.”

Budapest Airport also had an outstanding year in air cargo. While in 2023, it celebrated reaching the 200,000 ton threshold, the volume of cargo handled in 2024 almost reached 300,000 tonnes – 299,642 tonnes to be precise. This represents an increase of 48.8% from the previous year, and once again positions Budapest Airport as a leading player in the region. As with passenger traffic, air cargo volumes exceeded those recorded in the same period of last year in each month of the year.

Read also:

Unexpected Ryanair decision concerning summer 2025 flights affects Hungary

More Ryanair flights come to Hungary this summer

Ryanair plans to reduce capacities by 18% in 12 routes this summer compared to the summer of 2024 in Spain. That means deleting approximately 800,000 seats, a decision that would hit Spain’s tourism. Meanwhile, they plan to transfer freed capacities to other countries where governments facilitate growth. The good news is that one of the target countries is Hungary.

According to portfolio.hu, Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, was outraged by the decision of the Spanish state-owned Aena airport operator to increase operation fees. As a result, they decided to reduce capacities in Spain by 18%, which means deleting 800,000 seats in 12 routes. Based on their relevant statement, the Irish budget airline said they would delete flights to Jerez and Valladolid. Meanwhile, they will cut flight frequency to Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, and Santander. Experts believe the measure will affect the Spanish tourism sector, especially on the economy of regional destinations.

Photo: depositphotos.com

More Ryanair capacities in Hungary

Ryanair said they would relocate those capacities to countries where governments facilitate growth. The target countries include Hungary, Croatia, Morocco, Sweden, and Italy. Spain’s tourism sector expanded in 2024, airports welcomed 309 million tourists last year, a record number. Spanish authorities remain optimistic about the future and calculate further growth in the sector. However, Ryanair’s decision might mean a step back for multiple regions, especially in towns where they do not plan to fly this summer. Ryanair did not share any details concerning which new flights they would start from Hungary or on which routes they would increase flight frequency.

Read also:

Budapest to be connected with a beautiful Gulf country with new flights

kuwait city budapest flight gulf country

A new direct flight route between Budapest and a picturesque Gulf country will soon be available, as Jazeera Airways and Budapest Airport have signed an agreement. The flights are set to commence in the summer of 2025, with two weekly departures linking the Hungarian capital with Kuwait City.

Expanding travel opportunities

kuwait city budapest flight
Kuwait City. Photo: depositphotos.com

According to Budflyer, Jazeera Airways, a low-cost airline based in Kuwait, will operate the route with plans for seasonal service. The specific schedule and ticket availability are expected to be announced soon, with bookings anticipated to open shortly. As András Szabó, Ambassador of Hungary to Kuwait, said, the new connection is designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers, enhancing accessibility between the two regions. To promote Hungarian tourism, Jazeera Airways has partnered with Visit Hungary. This collaboration aims to boost inbound tourism from the Gulf region while highlighting Hungary’s cultural and economic appeal.

A strong diplomatic foundation

The announcement comes as both countries celebrate over 60 years of diplomatic relations. Kuwait holds a significant place in Hungary’s international ties, being the first Gulf nation to establish such relations.

About Jazeera Airways

Founded in 2005, Jazeera Airways operates a fleet of 24 Airbus aircraft, including 13 A320-200 and 11 A320neo models. According to AIRportal.hu, the airline serves over 60 destinations across the Middle East, South and Central Asia, Europe, and Africa. The Budapest route marks an important addition to Jazeera’s growing network, offering travellers more convenient options for connecting with key cities in the Gulf and beyond.

A revived connection

The new service follows an earlier announcement by Kuwait Airways in 2023 about plans for direct flights to Budapest, which were later cancelled. The reestablishment of a direct link now brings fresh opportunities for both regions. With this new connection, travellers can look forward to exploring the unique charms of Hungary and the Gulf region, fostering cultural exchange and economic collaboration.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Revealed: Budapest ranks as Europe’s best airport for parking

Budapest ranks as Europe’s best airport for parking

New research from Compare the Market reveals the world’s best airports for parking based on the auto theft rate and average pricing. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Istanbul Airport and Václav Havel Airport Prague were the top three best airports. Geneva Airport, Orly Airport and Heathrow Airport ranked at the bottom of the list.

Which airports have the best airport parking?

Whether travelling for business or pleasure, many of us use airport parking to park our cars while we head on our journey. But which airports have the best airport parking? With Google searches for ‘airport parking costs’ up by +402%¹ in the past year, new research from Compare the Market has revealed Europe’s best (and worst) airport parking based on national auto theft rates and the airport’s average pricing.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt Airport in Hungary ranked as the best, while Geneva Airport in Switzerland ranked as the worst of those analysed. Five Spanish airlines ranked in the top 10, with Budapest Ferenc Liszt Airport taking the top spot.

RankAirportWeekly Parking Cost (EUR)Car Theft Rate
1Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Hungary36.4632.3
2Istanbul Airport, Turkey36.4038.7
3Václav Havel Airport Prague, Czechia41.1733.1
4Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, Spain40.0050.6
5Palma de Mallorca Airport, Spain44.0050.6
6Málaga Airport, Spain45.0050.6
7Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, Spain52.0050.6
8Copenhagen Airport, Denmark66.9120.3
9Hamburg Airport, Germany49.0059.0
10Valencia Airport, Spain53.0050.6

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Hungary takes the top spot overall with a weekly parking cost of €36.46, which is super affordable compared to other airports on the list. What’s more, Hungary has a car theft rate of 32.3 incidents per 100,000 vehicles, ranking lower in theft risk compared to others on the list. Istanbul Airport in Turkey follows closely behind, offering slightly cheaper parking at €36.40 but with a higher national car theft rate of 38.7.

Budapest ranks as Europe’s best airport for parking
Photo: Facebook / Budapest Airport

In the middle of the pack, Václav Havel Airport Prague in Czechia charges €41.17 weekly for parking and Czechia has a car theft rate of 33.1. Spanish airports dominate the list with Spain’s lower theft rates of 50.6 and cheap parking, including Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (€40), Palma de Mallorca Airport (€44), Málaga Airport (€45), Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (€52), and Valencia Airport (€53).

Northern European hubs like Copenhagen Airport in Denmark and Hamburg Airport in Germany round out the list with significantly higher parking costs of €66.91 and €49, respectively. However, Denmark boasts the lowest theft rate on the list at 20.3, while Germany has the highest at 59.0, making Hamburg a notable outlier in terms of risk despite being less expensive than Copenhagen.

Geneva Airport was revealed as the worst for parking, however, French airports take up the most spots on the list

Below are the top 10 worst European airports for parking, according to the data:

RankAirport NameWeek Parking Cost (EUR)Car Theft Rate
1Geneva Airport, Switzerland141.42216.9
2Orly Airport, France111.00252.4
3Heathrow Airport, UK132.94189.9
4Charles de Gaulle Airport, France88.80252.4
5Zurich Airport, Switzerland100.26216.9
6Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, France81.40252.4
7Bristol Airport, UK89.47189.9
8Manchester Airport, UK89.43189.9
9Venice Marco Polo Airport, Italy77.00213.0
10Marseille Provence Airport, France50.00252.4

Geneva Airport in Switzerland tops the list as the most expensive, charging an eye-watering €141.42 per week for parking while also recording an alarming car theft rate of 216.9 incidents per 100,000 vehicles. Similarly, Orly Airport in France charges €111 weekly and has an even higher theft rate of 252.4, one of the worst among major European airports.

Heathrow Airport in the UK ranks third with a weekly parking cost of €132.94 and a theft rate of 189.9, closely followed by Charles de Gaulle Airport in France, which is slightly more affordable at €88.80 but shares Orly’s concerning theft rate of 252.4. Zurich Airport in Switzerland is also among the most expensive, charging €100.26 per week, paired with a high theft rate of 216.9.

French airports dominate the list with additional entries such as Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (€81.40) and Marseille Provence Airport (€50), both reporting theft rates of 252.4. Meanwhile, UK hubs Bristol Airport (€89.47) and Manchester Airport (€89.43) share identical theft rates of 189.9.

Compare the Market’s Executive General Manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, notes that there are different levels of car insurance coverage, and with more coverage available at a higher price.

“There are policies that just cover damage you cause to other people’s property when driving, then there are policies that cover that, plus fire and theft. The top tier is comprehensive insurance, which covers these losses as well as damage to your own vehicle from other events such as accidents, storms and flooding,” says Mr. Taylor.

If you’re concerned about theft and wanting that to be covered, then its important that you check the policy wording to ensure that it’s an insured event and not excluded. This will help give you peace of mind when your car is parked at home or away from home, including when you leave your car at an airport car park when you travel.

To view the full list, please visit: comparethemarket.com

Read also:

Tourism agency: 2024 record year for Hungary tourism

Last year was another record year for Hungary’s tourism sector, with both foreign and domestic guest numbers as well as tourism revenue rising to new highs, Zoltán Guller, head of the Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTU) said on Monday.

Hungarian tourism on the rise

In 2024 guest numbers increased 11pc to 18m, including 9.3m domestic and 8.7m foreign tourists. Guest nights came to 44.2m, with about half of guest nights spent by foreign tourists. Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport had around 17m passengers, up more than 17pc from a year earlier. The capital attracted close to 6m foreign visitors, 24pc more than a year earlier, and accounts for 60pc of the total number of guest nights spent by foreign tourists in Hungary.

Revenue of tourist accommodations rose 16pc to HUF 1,050bn. Catering revenue was up 11pc at HUF 2,005bn. Outside of the capital, spa towns Siofok, Hajdúszoboszló, Hévíz, Balatonfüred and Zalakaros were the most popular destinations. Lake Balaton attracted more than 3m guests, up 7pc from a year earlier. SZÉP voucher card top-ups came to HUF 454bn and card holders spent HUF 432bn, with spending on tourism up 9pc from a year earlier.

The tourism sector contributes close to 13pc to GDP. It is expected to account for 80pc of last year’s EUR 5bn current account surplus, Guller said. By 2030, the agency targets an annual 20m guests and 50m guest nights, while the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP reaches at least 16pc. At the sector’s current rate of growth, these targets could be achieved before 2030, Guller said.

Read also:

Budapest Airport back in Hungarian hands: What’s next for Hungary’s main hub?

After nearly two decades under foreign ownership, Budapest Airport has returned to Hungarian control. Following prolonged negotiations, a deal was finalised in June 2024, with the Hungarian state acquiring an 80% stake in partnership with French operator Vinci Airports, which holds the remaining 20%. The acquisition price totalled EUR 3.1 billion, alongside EUR 1.44 billion in refinanced loans.

Criticised strategic investment

While some questioned the timing of this major purchase due to budgetary constraints, the government cited strategic reasons for reclaiming ownership, Portfolio writes. The acquisition was partially funded by selling state-owned assets, including stakes in Erste Bank Hungary and Yettel Magyarország, with additional financing from development bank loans and budget reallocations.

budapest airport
Photo: bud.hu

Minister of Economic Development Márton Nagy clarified that the state would act as a financial and strategic investor, leaving airport operations to Vinci, which manages over 70 airports globally. The partnership aims to guide the airport’s development into a regional and global leader.

Record-breaking growth and pioneering plans

Budapest Airport has rebounded strongly from the pandemic, setting monthly passenger records in 2024. By October, passenger traffic had already surpassed 2023 levels, with the year-end total expected to exceed 17 million travellers, breaking the pre-pandemic record of 2019. Profitability has also soared, with 2023 revenues reaching EUR 337 million, a 22% increase from the previous year.

budapest airport cargo
Photo: www.bud.hu

The airport’s management forecasts further growth, targeting 20 million passengers by 2030 and 25 million by 2040. The increase in long-haul flights, particularly to China, has already begun, with new routes added by airlines such as China Southern, Shanghai Airlines, and Hainan Airlines.

Terminal 3 and infrastructure upgrades

Plans for the long-awaited Terminal 3 are now underway, with preliminary construction, including groundwork, already in progress. The terminal is expected to be completed within eight years, alongside upgrades to the surrounding infrastructure. These include improved access roads, expanded parking facilities, and the long-discussed railway link to the airport.

Budapest Airport Terminal 3 (Copy)
Máté Lóga, state secretary for economic strategy, industry, financial resources and macroeconomic analysis / Chairman of the Board of Directors of Budapest Airport and Francois Berisot, CEO of Budapest Airport. Photo: Budapest Airport/bud.hu

The government views the airport as a strategic hub for connecting Western and Eastern capital and technology. Its goal is to transform Budapest Airport into not only the best in the region but one of the world’s leading aviation hubs.

Vision for the future

The Hungarian government, in collaboration with Vinci, aims to position Budapest Airport as a key player in global air travel, enhancing its infrastructure, passenger experience, and international connections. With a mix of public and private investment, the airport is set to become a cornerstone of Hungary’s economic and technological integration with the world.

Read also:

How to escape winter on a budget: Affordable sunny getaways from Budapest

funchal madeira portugal budapest

As the cold winter months approach, many of us dream of escaping the long, dark nights and freezing temperatures for a warm, sunlit paradise. Travelling from “winter to summer” has become one of the biggest trends in recent years, thanks to increasingly affordable and accessible destinations.

From Budapest, you can easily reach exotic islands, historic cities, and stunning beaches with direct flights, where temperatures range between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). Here’s a guide to some of the best-value destinations for the 2024/2025 season, according to Pénzcentrum.

Canary Islands, Spain

Located near the coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands offer eternal spring-like weather, breathtaking beaches, and volcanic landscapes. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are particularly popular, featuring vibrant cultural life, nature reserves, and diverse beaches.

tenerife canary islands spain
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. Photo: depositphotos.com

Weather: 20-25°C (68-77°F) in winter with plenty of sunshine.
Swimming: The sea temperature is around 20°C (68°F), but many hotels offer heated pools.
Costs: Budget airlines offer flights to Tenerife or Gran Canaria starting from EUR 100. Accommodation in 3-star hotels is available for as little as EUR 300-350 per week per person.

Egypt – Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh

Egypt is famous for its pyramids, Nile culture, and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are top resort destinations offering not only beach relaxation but also excellent scuba diving opportunities.

Weather: 25-30°C (77-86°F) between December and March, with low humidity.
Costs: Charter flights and package deals, including all-inclusive options, are available from EUR 430 per person, often including airport transfers.
Swimming: The Red Sea remains warm and ideal for diving even in winter.

Madeira, Portugal

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira boasts volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and picturesque towns. The island is celebrated for its unique gastronomy, wines, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

funchal madeira portugal
Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. Photo: depositphotos.com

Weather: Mild 19-22°C (66-72°F) temperatures in winter with plenty of sun.
Costs: Low-cost airline tickets start at EUR 75-125.
Swimming: While the ocean is cooler, Madeira’s volcanic beaches are a must-see experience.

Agadir, Morocco

Morocco, where the Sahara meets the Atlantic Ocean, is renowned for its cultural richness and diverse landscapes. Agadir offers sun-soaked beaches, while Marrakesh is famous for its bustling souks (markets) and historic architecture.

agadir morocco
Agadir, Morocco. Photo: depositphotos.com

Weather: 20-25°C (68-77°F) during winter with sunny skies.
Costs: Budget flights from Budapest often include a layover, with round-trip tickets starting at EUR 100-150.
Swimming: Golden sandy beaches and oceanfront promenades await travellers.

Malta

Located in the southern Mediterranean, Malta is a small island nation packed with history and stunning coastlines. Its mild winter weather (15-20°C/59-68°F) makes it an excellent choice for a quick escape. The capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible architecture and cultural landmarks.

Malta
Malta. Photo: depositphotos.com

Weather: 15-20°C in winter, mild and sunny.
Costs: Flights from Budapest or Vienna start at EUR 85, and accommodations are affordable.
Swimming: While the sea is cooler in winter (16-18°C/61-64°F), the picturesque Blue Lagoon and Mellieħa Bay remain captivating.

With these destinations, escaping the winter chill doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you prefer relaxing on a sunny beach, exploring vibrant cultural sites, or diving into crystal-clear waters, there’s something for everyone. Pack your bags, leave the frost behind, and bask in the warmth of these affordable sunny getaways!

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

Traffic at Budapest Airport approaches record, cargo at all-time high

Budapest Airport

Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, recorded extremely strong passenger traffic in November.

11-month passenger traffic at Budapest Airport approaches record, cargo hits all-time highs

Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, recorded extremely strong passenger traffic in November, with a total of 1,401,245 passengers using Ferenc Liszt International Airport, which is not only 22% higher than last year’s figures, but also 10% higher than the previous record-breaking November of 2019. Remarkably, the airport’s passenger traffic has broken records every month this year, exceeding the 2022 full year total by September. By November, passenger traffic not only surpassed the 2023 12-month total by 1.3 million passengers, but also exceeded 16 million, approaching the previous record total from 2019, bud.hu.

Budapest Airport
Photo: FB/Budapest Airport

The most popular destinations in November were London, Milan and Paris

The volume of cargo handled also set a record in November, with 31,121 tonnes handled in Budapest, 40.1% more than in the same period last year. The 271,962 tonnes of goods handled in the first eleven months of the year not only exceeded last year’s total by 49%, but has already surpassed the total volume handled in 2023. As with passenger traffic, air cargo volumes in each month of the year have exceeded the volumes registered in the same periods of the previous year.

How to make your Christmas travels carefree – rules and tips for festive travel

Terminal 2 at the airport is adorned with Christmas lights. In addition to creating a festive atmosphere, Budapest Airport pays special attention to managing the increased traffic over the Christmas period, to ensure a comfortable and seamless passenger experience for everyone. As part of this effort, the airport operator will provide a high staffing level, adjusted to the volume of traffic, and will also operate security checkpoints in line with traffic, helping to minimise waiting times.

In order to ensure seamless security screening, Budapest Airport asks passengers to check the latest information before departure about prohibited items that cannot be carried in hand baggage or hold baggage: fireworks and sparklers, for example, are considered hazardous for aviation and cannot be carried in hand or hold baggage. Of the tools commonly used in the run-up to Christmas, rolling pins and poppy seed crushers may only be carried in hold baggage, and care should be taken to ensure that only snow globes with a capacity of less than 100 millilitres are carried in hand baggage, and that this information is clearly marked on the item by the manufacturer. Snow globes larger than this can be carried in hold baggage.

Due to the increased traffic over the festive period, please arrive early at the airport, use online check-in and self-service baggage drop-off, and remember that larger electronic items, such as laptops and hairdryers, no longer need to be removed from hand baggage during security screening.

Budapest Airport’s tree planting campaign continuing

As well as reducing the airport’s carbon footprint, Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, is also acting to protect local natural assets. This year, Budapest Airport’s employees have again joined forces for the environment: in December, 20 employees planted a total of 650 saplings in Ócsa. This year, the third tree planting campaign, in cooperation with the Forest Savers (Erdőmentők), has already added 21,000 trees to the forest near Ócsa and the Danube-Ipoly National Park.

Experts also paid particular attention to ensuring that the initiative was carried out in places where it was really needed. Climate change has led to the emergence of a fungal species on the nature trail in Ócsa, which has attacked the native forest-forming tree species of the wetland forest. The only chance of preserving this habitat, unique in Europe, is to plant tree species that are resistant to the invasive fungus.

In addition to the December campaign, Budapest Airport is supporting the work of the Forest Savers, with several million forints, who will use the funds to plant a total of 8 000 tree saplings in protected areas this season, as well as to achieve other conservation goals.

In addition, the joint project of the Municipality of Rákosmente and Budapest Airport aiming to save the Merzse marsh, reached an important milestone in the spring. The necessary preparatory surveys and environmental impact assessments have been successfully completed, and the subsequent on-site works will allow the Merzse marsh and the Little Merzse to regain their former ecological values in the future. Budapest Airport provided support of 10 million HUF for the project. Please click here for more information.

Read also:

Budapest airport shuttle may be cheaper with new and longer routes, but buses may be more crowded in 2025

Budapest Airport Shuttle

The 100E airport shuttle bus is probably your best option to get from Budapest Airport to downtown in a time-saving and comfortable way. However, the service is expensive for locals. Therefore, former mayoral candidate Dávid Vitézy wants to make it cheaper for those with a Budapest pass. Following his proposal, other groups in the municipal assembly also submitted initiatives to change the operation of the airport shuttle. As a result, 2025 may see new stops, extended routes and more crowded buses.

Budapest airport shuttle may circulate differently and have new routes in 2025

Mr Vitézy’s proposal was simple: those with at least a monthly Budapest pass should travel with 100E airport shuttle for HUF 450 (EUR 1.2), the price of a public transport ticket valid for trams, metros, and buses. The current price is HUF 2,200 (EUR 5.3), which is extremely high even for individual local travellers. For families or groups of friends, hiring a cab is cheaper even if they have a Budapest pass.

Therefore, Dávid Vitézy submitted the relevant proposal to the 18 December Municipal Assembly meeting, where it received several modifications. Mayor Gergely Karácsony and Fidesz Budapest leader (and former mayoral candidate) Alexandra Szentkirályi suggested changes in the network of the bus line, for example, an extension to the Nyugati railway station or a new line between the Budapest Airport and Buda. Moreover, they also suggested the addition of more stops, for example, at the Corvin District metro station.

Budapest Airport Shuttle
Source: FB/BKK

Since Vitézy accepted all modifications, there was a unanimous vote. As a result, they will continue the preparatory work in the transport and urban development committee in the first months of 2025, where they will also make the final decision about the new pricing system. If the price of the airport shuttle is reduced, we should expect more travellers, which means that buses will be more crowded. Thus, Alexandra Szentkirályi proposed an increase in frequency, but seemingly, the parties could not agree.

Traffic order will be modified in the downtown

The Municipal Assembly accepted another initiative of Vitézy: they will modify the traffic order in Budapest’s 6th and 7th districts, because trolleybuses regularly get stuck due to the bigger cars, vans, and SUVs parking in the narrow streets and blocking the way. As a result, an increasing number of traffic jams paralyse both the public transport system and car traffic.

Read also: