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Wizz Air confirms autumn Abu Dhabi start up

The Gulf-based offshoot of budget carrier Wizz Air plans an autumn start up with six routes.

The joint venture with region al holding company ADQ has gained national carrier status from the UAE government subject to meeting regulatory standards prior to starting operations.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi will initially base two new Airbus A321neos in the emirate with flights starting on October 1. Four further aircraft will be deployed in the first six months of operations, with additional routes to be announced “in due course”.

The initial network will serve Alexandria, Athens, Kutaisi in Georgia, Larnaca, Odesa in Ukraine and Yerevan in Armenia.

One-way fares start at less than £30 one-way.

The start-up will add an annual capacity of 350,000 seats to the UAE capital.

Wizz Air group chairman Jozsef Varadi said: “This announcement is the first step of a long and much awaited journey as we are dedicated to developing our presence in Abu Dhabi, contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversity strategy while offering ever more affordable travel opportunities on our low fare network.

“We much appreciate the support we have been given by the government, its affiliated organisations and our local business partners in Abu Dhabi.

“Our state-of-the-art Airbus A321neo aircraft, as well as our enhanced protective measures will ensure the best possible sanitary conditions for travellers.

“I’m confident Wizz Air will make a profound impact on the United Arab Emirates’ economic development and the ramp up of its tourism industry.”

Abu Dhabi Airports chief executive Shareef Al Hashmi, added: “With the addition of the new airline, the number of destinations and connections passengers are able to access through Abu Dhabi continues to grow, demonstrating our commitment to enhancing our network and placing our customers first.

“In addition to implementing comprehensive health and safety measures across our airports, we have made a series of strategic investments to ensure our facilities and services make Abu Dhabi International airport an optimal regional gateway for airlines from across the world.”

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