Wizz Air Receives Tentative U.S. Approval for UK–U.S. Flights Amid Rising Travel Demand

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has granted tentative approval for Wizz Air UK to operate passenger flights between the United Kingdom and the United States, marking a potential expansion for the European budget airline into the transatlantic market. The decision, announced Thursday, could open the door for a new low-cost travel option between the two countries if the approval becomes final.

Wizz Air’s UK subsidiary initially submitted a petition in January seeking a foreign air carrier permit that would allow it to launch flights between the UK and the U.S. “as soon as possible.” The USDOT said the preliminary approval is considered to be in the public interest, but the agency will allow a 21-day period for any objections before making a final decision. If finalized, the authorization would remain valid for two years from the date it is granted.

The airline is applying under the 2020 U.S.–UK Air Transport Agreement, commonly known as the Open Skies Agreement. This aviation pact allows airlines from both countries to operate passenger and cargo services between the two markets, helping promote competition, expand travel options, and potentially lower airfare prices for consumers.

This latest move represents Wizz Air’s second attempt to enter the U.S. aviation market. In 2022, the airline’s Hungarian unit applied for a foreign air carrier permit to operate cargo flights to the United States. The new application focuses instead on passenger routes, signaling the company’s interest in tapping into the growing demand for transatlantic travel.

Industry analysts say Wizz Air’s ultra-low-cost business model could benefit from rising global tourism spending and increased interest among European travelers in visiting U.S. destinations. Cities such as Nashville and Boise have recently gained attention from international tourists seeking alternatives to traditional travel hotspots.

Travel patterns have also shifted due to immigration policies and trade tensions introduced during the Trump administration, which slowed tourism in some major U.S. destinations. However, travel companies expect demand to rebound, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup expected to boost international arrivals to the United States.

Wizz Air CEO Jozsef Varadi recently told Reuters that the airline anticipates limiting the financial impact of the Iran conflict to the current fiscal year ending this month. According to Varadi, pressure on the company should ease starting in April after earlier concerns triggered a profit warning that weighed on the airline’s share price.

If the USDOT grants final approval, Wizz Air’s entry into the transatlantic market could increase competition among airlines while offering travelers more affordable flight options between the United Kingdom and the United States.