What can passengers expect from Wizz Air and other airlines regarding the departure tax? – UPDATE

For now, Wizz Air seems to be hesitating how to react, but passengers can expect pretty much the same with Ryanair. Let us have a look at what Wizz Air and other airlines will likely decide to do with the new departure tax. 

The Ryanair issue

Lately, Ryanair seems to be the talk of the media. The airline company first sharply criticised the new tax in its announcement and then informed passengers that it would pass it on to them.

In fact, it will charge the amount to passengers with a previously purchased ticket for flights departing from Budapest after 1 July.

Even a consumer protection investigation was launched against the airline company. According to the regulation, the airline tax called for contributions from the airlines to be paid by the ground handling companies. This means that the charge is shown to the airline as an item or expense re-invoiced by its local partner.

Ryanair’s actions were legal and fair

Clause 4.2.2 of the Ryanair General Conditions of Carriage for Passengers and Baggage, which is also referred to in their letter to the customers, states quite clearly: “the new tax (or the difference) must be paid before departure. But you can also choose not to travel and ask for a full refund of the booking cost.”

Ryanair not only acted exactly in accordance with its business rules but was also fair notifying passengers of the measure promptly.

Read alsoHungarian consumer protection launches investigation against Ryanair!

What about Wizz Air?

Not surprisingly, Wizz Air hesitates to react, or else, the company wants to avoid an open conflict with the government. However, the company’s general conditions and terms settle this issue very clearly.

That being said, passengers who booked Wizz Air flights departing from Hungary after 1 July should look out for a notification, which can arrive any time. – reports airportal.hu.

According to the business rules: “By reserving these Business Rules, we reserve the right to expressly agree to the use of taxes and duties imposed and increased by governments, authorities or the airport operator between the date of issue of the Confirmation and the date of departure. Security Fees and Other Services Fees (if applicable to your trip) will be charged retrospectively.”