Wizz Air threatens Belgrade base closure over new Serbian rules

Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air has issued a stark warning: it will close its base in Belgrade by November unless Serbia revises new regulations from its Civil Aviation Directorate. The airline contends that the current rules, as interpreted by Wizz Air, effectively prevent its aircraft and crews from being based in the Serbian capital.

"According to the new regulations, we would have to close our base in November, and we do not want to do that," stated András Rado, Wizz Air's communications director. The company argues that the new rules, which came into effect recently, make it impossible to continue operating as before. This potential closure could lead to fewer flights from Belgrade, the cancellation of certain routes, and a significant impact on the Serbian economy, potentially resulting in job losses.

The most direct consequence for Serbian citizens, according to Wizz Air, would be a dramatic increase in airfare. "If Wizz Air leaves Serbia, ticket prices will skyrocket. They will be crazy because there will be no real competition in the market. Serbs will have to pay five to ten times more for tickets," Rado warned.

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According to the new regulations, we would have to close our base in November, and we do not want to do that.

Wizz Air has escalated the issue by contacting the European Commission. A spokesperson for the Commission confirmed to BIRN that they are in communication with Serbian authorities and are examining the regulations' compliance with Serbia's obligations under the Open Skies Agreement. The Directorate of Civil Aviation, however, maintains that it operates impartially and in accordance with domestic and international regulations, upholding principles of equal treatment and fair competition.

Despite these assurances, Wizz Air remains concerned. Rado mentioned a single online meeting with the Serbian Directorate, facilitated by the Hungarian civil aviation authority, but indicated it has not resolved the situation. The airline is exploring all legal avenues to prevent the closure of its Serbian base, which was established in 2011.

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If Wizz Air leaves Serbia, ticket prices will skyrocket. They will be crazy because there will be no real competition in the market. Serbs will have to pay five to ten times more for tickets.