Wizz Air Restores Key Routes After Abu Dhabi Exit
Wizz Air has announced the resumption of key flight routes from Abu Dhabi to Larnaca in Cyprus and Sofia in Bulgaria, marking a notable return to the UAE capital’s growing aviation market just weeks after halting operations through its local unit, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi.
The airline, known for its affordable fares and extensive European network, confirmed that Wizz Air Hungary will now operate both routes, with flights commencing in mid-November 2025.
According to The National, flights to Larnaca will start on November 15, running four times a week — Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays — though some Thursday services will be paused during December and January. Flights will continue through October 24, 2026.
The Sofia route is set to begin on November 17, with operations scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, running until March 27, 2026.
A Return to the UAE Market
The decision to relaunch Abu Dhabi routes comes barely six weeks after Wizz Air Abu Dhabi officially ceased operations on September 1, 2025, following what the company described as a “strategic realignment.” The move was part of a broader plan to consolidate operations across Europe and focus on core markets amid persistent operational challenges.
A Wizz Air spokesperson explained earlier this year that the realignment was designed to “improve operational resilience and optimize fleet utilization.” Despite the closure of its Abu Dhabi unit, Wizz Air appears keen to maintain its footprint in the UAE — a crucial hub for regional air travel and tourism.
The airline’s return through its Hungarian division allows it to preserve access to Abu Dhabi’s growing passenger base while avoiding the costs associated with maintaining a separate local carrier.
Record Growth in Abu Dhabi’s Aviation Sector
Wizz Air’s renewed activity comes at a time when Abu Dhabi’s airports are experiencing record growth. The emirate’s five airports handled 29.4 million travelers in 2024, up 28% year-on-year, driven largely by Zayed International Airport, home to Etihad Airways.
The surge in passenger traffic has attracted renewed interest from low-cost carriers seeking to capitalize on the region’s expanding tourism and business links.
In 2024 alone, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi transported more than 3.5 million passengers across 19,000 flights, boasting a load factor above 80%, indicating strong demand for its affordable services.
Operational Challenges and Engine Issues
Wizz Air’s decision to streamline operations followed months of engine reliability problems that have affected airlines worldwide. The carrier’s all-Airbus fleet relies heavily on Pratt & Whitney engines, many of which have faced long-term maintenance delays, forcing airlines to ground dozens of aircraft.
These challenges have been particularly severe in “hot and harsh environments,” such as the Gulf region, leading to reduced aircraft availability and schedule disruptions. By shifting its Abu Dhabi routes under the management of Wizz Air Hungary, the airline hopes to stabilize operations while maintaining connectivity with key Middle Eastern and European destinations.
Wizz Air Expands Regional Network Despite Setbacks
In addition to Larnaca and Sofia, Wizz Air continues to serve other popular destinations from the region, including Budapest, Katowice, Krakow, and Bucharest. The airline’s expansion underscores its commitment to maintaining a strong presence in Central and Eastern Europe while tapping into the Middle East’s fast-growing aviation demand.
Analysts note that this hybrid approach — scaling down local subsidiaries while operating through its primary European base — reflects Wizz Air’s efforts to balance growth with cost efficiency.
A Boost for Travelers and Tourism
The reinstated routes are expected to benefit both leisure and business travelers. Cyprus and Bulgaria remain popular holiday and expatriate destinations for UAE residents, and the reintroduction of direct connections is likely to stimulate travel demand in both directions.
Travel agencies in Abu Dhabi report strong early interest, with many passengers booking ahead for Christmas and New Year travel.
The Bigger Picture: A Resilient Comeback
Wizz Air’s re-entry into Abu Dhabi, even after withdrawing its local operations, highlights the airline’s adaptability in an industry still navigating post-pandemic recovery and logistical headwinds.
By leveraging its Hungarian operations, Wizz Air demonstrates how low-cost carriers are evolving to meet regional challenges while maintaining competitive pricing and connectivity.
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