Here’s when Wizz Air could return to full capacity, according to CEO Váradi

Wizz Air is targeting a return to full operational capacity by the end of May or early June, following a disruptive outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, the airline’s CEO, Váradi József, told Reuters.

The low-cost carrier reported a EUR 50 million hit to its profits due to the escalation, but Váradi indicated that the financial impact will largely remain confined to the fiscal year ending in March. From April onwards, the airline expects relief from the pressure that earlier profit warnings placed on investor expectations.

Middle East disruptions affecting flights

The conflict, now in its seventh day, has severely affected aviation in the region. Thousands of flights were cancelled in the initial days, and fuel prices surged. Wizz Air swiftly suspended its routes to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman, initially until 7 March, later extending cancellations to 15 March, then announcing an even longer suspension. In response, the airline increased the frequency of flights between Budapest and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Analysts estimate that the suspended Middle Eastern routes accounted for roughly 8–10% of Wizz Air’s weekly capacity. Gábor Bukta of Concorde Értékpapír highlighted that the airline, which would normally be in a period of aggressive growth, now faces the challenge of reallocating capacity and managing additional costs. Rising oil prices could add EUR 130–150 million in extra expenses for the next financial year, potentially putting further pressure on Wizz Air’s stock, with a possible 15–20% decline forecast.