Wizz Air is blowing the whistle. These flights were suspended despite the EU move
Due to the tense situation, Wizz Air announced the suspension of flights to Israel for several months. This is not the only carrier that has made such a decision.
The Hungarian carrier announced the suspension of flights to Israel in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 16. The airline will not transport passengers to and from Tel Aviv until January 14, 2025.
Wizz Air refund for flights to Israel
“Wizz Air apologizes for any inconvenience that may occur to passengers as a result of these extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control. We offer customers affected by these changes a full refund – in the form of WIZZ credits or the original form of payment – or the possibility of rebooking free of charge,” we read.
The airline added that passengers who booked flights through an online travel agency or other third party should contact these entities to obtain a refund or rebook to another flight.
The Hungarian carrier made the decision despite the European Union’s lifting of the recommendation that international airlines avoid flights in Israeli airspace. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency lifted this recommendation on Wednesday, October 9, and recommended that airlines monitor the situation on an ongoing basis and exercise caution.
The warning was originally issued on September 28, after Israel intensified operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. It was to be valid until October 31. The EU body warned “not to operate in Lebanese and Israeli airspace at all flight levels,” citing “an overall intensification of air attacks and a deterioration of the security situation.”
Carriers suspend connections to the Middle East
The Times of Israel points out that Israelis eagerly travel by Wizz Air to European destinations and the decision will spoil their holiday plans. According to public broadcaster Kan, the cancellation of Hungarian airlines’ flights will result in price increases to locations across Europe.
These are not the only airlines that have decided to suspend flights to Israel. The national carrier PLL LOT will not operate them throughout November. Most European carriers decided similarly, including: Ryanair and KLM. For Irish Airlines, travelers cannot book flights on this route until February.
