Wizz Air confirms transatlantic ambitions but remains tight-lipped on plans 

Wizz Air has confirmed seeking permission to start transatlantic flights between the UK and US.

One suggestion is that the UK arm of the Hungarian budget carrier would look to run one-off charter flights to the World Cup for England and Scotland football supporters.

However, the airline has remained tight-lipped over its plans after it emerged that a filing on Friday had sought approval from the US Department of Transportation for a foreign air carrier permit to operate flights between the two countries "as soon as possible” under open skies regulations.

Wizz Air initially intends to conduct only passenger charter service based on seasonal and customer demand. Routes and destinations remain unclear.

In a statement to The Times, carrier said: “Wizz Air UK confirms it has submitted an application to the US Department of Transportation seeking the necessary approvals to operate services between the UK and the United States.”

It continued: “As stated in the application Wizz Air UK plans only charter operations. The matter is subject to regulatory approval.”

The airline has the ability to operate transatlantic services using extended range range single-aisle Airbus A321XLR aircraft capable of flying on routes of more than six hours in duration, making the US east coast accessible. 

Announcing the delivery of its first A321XLR last May (pictured), the airline said: “With its extra-long range capability, the A321XLR expands horizons for Wizz Air passengers, offering non-stop flights to exciting new destinations that were previously only accessible with wide-body aircraft operated by high fare long-haul operators. 

“This means more direct routes with more seats, no business class and even lower fares - all without compromising on comfort.

Wizz Air marked carrying 500 million passengers since the start of operations 22 years ago earlier this month.

Chief executive Jozsef Varadi said: “This milestone gives us powerful momentum as we continue to broaden our network, scale our operations, and shape the future of air travel together with our passengers around the world.”  

The airline took delivery of its 250th Airbus aircraft in November and has a similar amount on order.

The airline announced the closure of loss-making Abu Dhabi operations last summer to focus on its main eastern European market amid political tensions in the Middle East.

Wizz Air is due to report third quarter results on Thursday.

Travel Weekly has approached Wizz Air for comment.