Israeli airline EL AL is pushing back against Wizz Air’s plans to set up shop at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), arguing that it could harm both local airlines and the nation. Arkia and Israir are also on board with this opposition, having sent letters to authorities to block the move. Wizz Air, a Hungarian low-cost carrier, is eyeing a base at Ben Gurion to expand its operations in Israel, potentially launching up to 30 flights a day. While Israel’s Transport Ministry is all for it, the Civil Aviation Authority and national airlines are not so keen.
EL AL’s main concern is that allowing Wizz Air to establish a base in Tel Aviv could compromise “national resilience” and public safety. Israeli flights are known for their strict security measures, and there’s worry that a foreign low-cost carrier might not uphold these standards. EL AL also points out that during times of conflict, only Israeli airlines have continued operations, while foreign carriers have pulled out. They argue that letting Wizz Air in could set a “dangerous precedent,” making it easier for other foreign airlines to edge out Israeli ones.
The specifics of the deal are still up in the air. Wizz Air could either operate under its own Air Operators License (AOC) or set up an Israeli subsidiary, similar to its Wizz Air Abu Dhabi venture. The latter would require meeting Israeli regulatory standards and flying under an Israeli AOC. Wizz Air seems to prefer just an operational base, which would limit them to flights between Israel and Europe. However, an Israeli subsidiary would allow them to expand beyond Europe. #AviationNews #IsraelAviation #WizzAir #ELAL
Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
