Wizz Air UK has secured regulatory approval to operate transatlantic charter flights to the United States, paving the way for services linked to the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer.
The low-cost carrier said it expects strong demand from European football teams and supporters travelling to the tournament, as well as from tour operators organising group travel to the US.
According to the airline, the authorisation allows Wizz Air UK to provide bespoke charter flights across the Atlantic, although the carrier stressed it has no plans to launch regular scheduled services between Europe and the United States.
The airline said the new permissions will enable it to offer tailored flights for football squads, fans and organised tour groups travelling to World Cup matches.
In a statement, the company noted that the approval followed months of regulatory coordination and operational planning. The flights are expected to connect Europe with major US destinations hosting matches during the tournament.
Wizz Air UK managing director Yvonne Moynihan described the development as a significant milestone for the airline.
“Receiving approval to operate between the UK and the United States is a huge milestone for our company,” she said. “It opens the door to incredible opportunities, particularly for European football teams and supporters travelling across the Atlantic this summer.”
The airline plans to deploy the ultra-long-range Airbus A321XLR for these operations, a next-generation narrowbody aircraft capable of flying routes between Europe and the east coast of the United States.
Beyond football-related travel, Wizz Air said the charter service will also be available for corporate groups, sports organisations, tour operators and private travellers seeking transatlantic connectivity.
The company added that the move represents a new chapter in its operational capabilities, even though it does not intend to enter the scheduled transatlantic market.
While Wizz Air remains primarily focused on its European network, the transatlantic charter approval demonstrates how newer long-range narrowbody aircraft are reshaping route possibilities.
For event organisers, corporate groups and sports teams travelling to the World Cup, the development offers an additional charter option at a time when demand for transatlantic capacity is expected to surge.
As Moynihan noted, the airline now hopes to “bring fans closer to the action”, marking a rare transatlantic venture for the Central and Eastern European low-cost carrier.
