Wizz Air Submits Application for Transatlantic Charter Flights from the UK
In a bold move that could reshape affordable long-haul travel, Hungarian budget carrier Wizz Air is aiming to launch its first-ever transatlantic flights from the United Kingdom to the United States. The airline's UK subsidiary, Wizz Air UK, headquartered at London Luton Airport, formally filed an application with the US Department of Transportation on January 23, 2026. This strategic initiative seeks to capitalise on the post-Brexit aviation landscape, specifically referencing the Open Skies agreement established in 2020, which facilitates unrestricted air travel between the UK and the US.
In an official statement, the airline confirmed the development, noting: 'Wizz Air UK confirms it has submitted an application to the US department of transportation seeking the necessary approvals to operate services between the UK and the United States.' The carrier emphasised that its plans are currently focused solely on charter operations, with the entire proposal subject to regulatory approval. If successful, Wizz Air intends to commence flights between the two nations 'as soon as possible', marking a significant expansion beyond its traditional European and Middle Eastern networks.
The Aircraft Enabling the Ambitious Transatlantic Leap
The feasibility of this venture hinges on Wizz Air's investment in the Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft, announced in May of the previous year. This single-aisle jet boasts an extended range capability, with the capacity for flights lasting up to 11 hours due to increased fuel storage. This technological advancement makes destinations on the US East Coast viably accessible for a narrow-body, budget-focused operator.
Wizz Air has championed the A321XLR as a game-changer, stating: 'The A321XLR expands horizons for Wizz Air passengers, offering non-stop flights to exciting new destinations that were previously only accessible with wide-body aircraft operated by high-fare long-haul operators.' The airline promises that this model will translate into more direct routes, a higher number of seats, the absence of a business class section, and consequently, even lower fares—all while maintaining passenger comfort.
Wizz Air's Existing Long-Haul Experience and Market Context
While a transatlantic service would be a first, Wizz Air is not entirely new to longer routes. The carrier currently operates its lengthiest flights from London Gatwick to Jeddah and Medina in Saudi Arabia, journeys taking between six and seven hours with one-way fares starting around £105. These routes utilise the 239-seat Airbus A321XLR, the same aircraft earmarked for potential US services. Additionally, Wizz Air flies from London Luton to Amman, Jordan, a five-and-a-half-hour flight where tickets can be found for as little as £30 one-way using Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft.
The airline previously offered a connection from the UK to the Maldives via Abu Dhabi, but this route was discontinued in April 2025 following the Maldives' implementation of higher Airport Development Fees.
The Low-Cost Transatlantic Challenge and Competitors
The pursuit of affordable transatlantic travel has historically been fraught with difficulty for budget airlines. Ryanair's CEO, Eddie Wilson, highlighted the core challenges in 2023, noting that the efficient, quick-turnaround model perfected on European short-haul routes does not easily transfer to long-haul operations. 'Nobody has ever really cracked that yet,' Wilson remarked, pointing out that even major carriers struggle to achieve extra aircraft rotations on transatlantic journeys.
Despite these hurdles, a low-cost model has found some success in the market. Norse, a Norwegian airline, currently operates direct, budget-friendly flights from London Gatwick and Manchester to several US cities, including New York, Orlando, and Los Angeles, with fares typically ranging from £175 to £271. Wizz Air's potential entry would introduce another competitor into this niche, promising its signature ultra-low-cost approach to transatlantic travel pending regulatory clearance.
