Wizz Air Plans Major Israel Expansion for 2026 as Ryanair Withdraws Operations

Published on November 29, 2025

A significant shift in the aviation and tourism landscape of Israel is being observed as Wizz Air advances plans for a major operational base in Tel Aviv. This development has been positioned as a strategic move that could reshape travel patterns across the region, particularly at Ben Gurion Airport, one of the busiest gateways for international visitors to the country. During a high-profile visit to the city, the airline’s leadership expressed strong commitment to transforming the Israeli market through expanded connectivity, enhanced affordability, and increased flight options across Europe. The proposed base, expected to launch in early 2026, represents a considerable investment at a time when several international low-cost carriers have limited or withdrawn their services to Israel, creating capacity gaps and contributing to elevated fares. By outlining a future network that may grow to nearly fifty routes, Wizz Air has signaled its long-term intent to play a central role in shaping mobility for both residents and travelers arriving in Israel. As negotiations with the government progress, the initiative has attracted industry attention for its potential to influence pricing trends, strengthen tourism flows, and recalibrate competition at a national level.

Strategic Momentum Builds Around the Proposed Operational Base

Steady progress has been reported in the discussions between Wizz Air and senior Israeli authorities, particularly during meetings held in Tel Aviv that aimed to finalize the framework for the airline’s first full operational base in the country. The timeline being targeted spans March to April 2026, marking a firm and ambitious intention by the carrier to establish long-term operations within Israel’s aviation ecosystem. These deliberations have been centered on essential regulatory, technical, and operational matters, which the airline seeks to conclude by the end of January.

The initiative has been interpreted as a substantial investment directed toward reshaping the travel environment for both domestic passengers and international visitors. With many travelers experiencing higher-than-average fares in recent years, the new base is being viewed by industry observers as a potential turning point. The airline has suggested that widespread access to European destinations may become more affordable, which is expected to support the broader tourism economy and make travel to and from Israel more accessible.

Expansion Plans Set to Strengthen Israel’s Air Connectivity

Wizz Air currently maintains a network of 21 routes operating from Israel, but the airline has outlined a vision that could bring this number close to 50 within a few years. Such an expansion would not only diversify travel options but also significantly grow the number of seats available on these routes. Estimates indicate that around four million additional seats may be introduced over the next three years, positioning Israel as one of the most important markets for the carrier within the region.

This targeted growth is aligned with larger efforts to integrate Israel more deeply into European travel flows. If the airline stations multiple aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport or the alternative Ramon Airport, a broader geographical range of destinations may be introduced, paving the way for improved tourism connectivity. Increased frequencies, seasonal travel opportunities, and new city pairs are expected to elevate Israel’s visibility among travelers looking for efficient links to the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

As more accessible fares are introduced, tourism stakeholders foresee rising visitor numbers, particularly from European markets where low-cost travel remains a driving force for leisure mobility.

Reactions From Israeli Carriers and Concerns Over Competitive Balance

While the government has expressed support for foreign carriers bringing additional capacity into the Israeli market, the response from local airlines has been notably cautious. El Al, Arkia, and Israir have raised concerns about the potential long-term implications of a large-scale Wizz Air base. Their objections are centered around the perceived risk to national air resilience and operational stability, especially regarding access to strategic airport slots.

These airlines have also highlighted the importance of maintaining controlled growth to ensure their ability to withstand external competition. Industry analysts have acknowledged that sudden capacity increases may exert pressure on incumbents, particularly if Wizz Air introduces widespread low-fare models. However, this dynamic has been interpreted by government officials as an essential mechanism for restoring balance to a market that has struggled with elevated prices during recent years of regional conflict and restricted airline activity.

Authorities have emphasized that consumer interests remain the priority, and expanding foreign participation is viewed as a means of lowering travel costs while ensuring more stability for the general public.

Impact of Ryanair and easyJet Withdrawals on Israel’s Aviation Market

The timing of Wizz Air’s accelerated involvement has been further influenced by reduced participation from other major low-cost carriers. Ryanair has suspended all flights indefinitely, while easyJet has extended its operational suspension until at least March 28, 2026. These withdrawals have created visible gaps in capacity, driving up fares and limiting affordable travel options on several high-demand European routes.

With these carriers absent, travelers have faced fewer choices and higher costs during peak seasons and holiday periods. Tourism operators have noted that the resulting imbalance has contributed to economic strain for inbound travel markets, as budget-oriented tourists often rely on affordable flight options. The government has publicly voiced dissatisfaction with pricing practices during this period, arguing that local airlines have benefited disproportionately from reduced competition.

This environment has made the proposed Wizz Air base particularly significant, as it may restore competitive equilibrium, widen the pool of accessible destinations, and support tourism recovery in the coming years.

Potential for Long-Term Transformation in Israel’s Tourism Sector

If the proposed base is implemented as planned, Israel’s air travel landscape is likely to experience a major shift. The establishment of a central hub by Wizz Air would be expected to generate more stable flight schedules, increased seat supply, and consistent long-term fare reductions. Additionally, strategic rights such as seventh-freedom traffic permissions could further enhance connectivity and reshape how travelers move through the region.

Tourism stakeholders believe that increased accessibility will encourage broader exploration of Israel, supporting holiday travel, business links, and cultural tourism. Enhanced frequency of flights may also encourage more weekend travel from Europe, strengthening sectors such as hospitality, recreation, and transportation.

The final approval will depend on continued negotiations between the Israeli government and Wizz Air. However, both entities appear aligned in their goal to make travel more affordable while improving international connectivity for residents and visitors alike.