Hungarian low cost airline Wizz Air plans to set up a base at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport starting in 2026. Local carriers like El Al, Israir, and Arkia strongly oppose the move, claiming it threatens their business and national security amid ongoing conflicts.
The Plan to Launch a New Hub
Wizz Air aims to station three aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport and run more than 200 weekly flights. This would connect Tel Aviv to cities across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
The airline says this will boost competition and lower high ticket prices that Israelis face today. Talks with Israeli officials started months ago, with support from Transportation Minister Miri Regev.
Recent reports show Wizz Air might add routes to places like Morocco, which could open new travel options. The base would create jobs and bring in tourism revenue.
Local Airlines Push Back Hard
El Al, Israir, and Arkia argue that Wizz Air’s entry could spark a price war and hurt their profits. They worry about market stability during tough times like wars.
These carriers have sent complaints to top leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They claim foreign airlines often cancel flights when conflicts heat up, leaving local ones to handle emergencies.
In recent years, international flights to Israel dropped sharply due to the 2023 Hamas war. Local airlines stepped up, but critics say they raised prices too much.
Opposition groups in parliament are debating the issue now. Some lawmakers back Wizz Air for cheaper fares, while others side with local firms.
Benefits for Everyday Travelers
High airfares from Tel Aviv have frustrated many Israelis for years. Wizz Air promises to cut costs on popular routes to Europe and beyond.
Travelers could save hundreds of dollars per ticket. This might make vacations more affordable for families and boost business trips.
Here are key potential gains:
- Lower fares on flights to London, Paris, and Rome.
- More flight choices during peak seasons.
- Better access to budget travel for young people and students.
Experts predict this could grow Israel’s tourism sector by 15 percent in the next few years.
A quick look at current average round trip fares from Tel Aviv shows the problem:
| Destination | Current Average Fare (USD) | Potential Wizz Air Fare (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| London | 450 | 250 |
| Paris | 500 | 300 |
| Rome | 400 | 200 |
| Athens | 350 | 180 |
These estimates come from industry trends and show how competition might help.
Security Risks in Focus
Local airlines say Wizz Air might not stick around during crises. Past events, like flight cancellations in 2024 due to regional tensions, left Israelis reliant on national carriers.
El Al points out it kept flying through wars, ensuring vital transport. They call Wizz Air’s plan a risk to national resilience.
However, Wizz Air vows to continue operations as long as safe, matching El Al’s standards. Supporters argue more airlines mean better backup options.
This debate ties into broader issues, like the 2023 conflict that halted many foreign flights. Israel’s aviation market has bounced back, handling over 21 million passengers in 2023 despite challenges.
Government Role and Next Steps
Transportation Minister Miri Regev backs the plan to fight high fares. She leads efforts to approve it, aiming for a 2026 launch.
Parliament hearings are underway, with input from airlines and experts. A decision could come soon, shaping Israel’s air travel future.
If approved, Wizz Air might expand further, adding bases in nearby countries. This fits a trend of low cost carriers growing in the Middle East.
The outcome will affect jobs, with estimates of 500 new positions from the base.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As talks continue, the aviation world watches closely. Wizz Air’s move could reshape travel in Israel, but opposition remains fierce.
Travelers hope for change, while local firms fight to protect their turf. The balance between competition and security is key.
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