A formal decision regarding the future of Wizz Air’s operational base at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is anticipated this week, following recent regulatory amendments by Serbia. Sources suggest the airline is likely to maintain its Belgrade base for the upcoming 2026/27 winter season, from October 25 to March 27, with Wizz Air promising an official announcement soon. The airline has communicated plans to EX-YU Aviation News and has engaged both the European Commission and Serbian Civil Aviation authorities in discussions.
This development follows the European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) Joint Committee’s recent meeting in Brussels, where the status of Wizz Air’s Belgrade operations was reportedly discussed. Bilateral talks between the European Commission and Serbia also addressed the matter, raising questions about Serbia's legislative compliance under the ECAA Agreement, particularly after recent regulatory changes.
Dispute Over Regulatory Changes
In response to the dispute, Wizz Air has filed slot allocations at various European airports leveraging both direct flights from Belgrade and “W” rotations based out of Budapest. These arrangements enable aircraft based in Budapest to operate routes connecting to Serbian destinations and then return, thus allowing Wizz Air to preserve parts of its Belgrade network without deploying aircraft and crew within Serbia.
The core of the disagreement stems from Serbian civil aviation regulations introduced earlier this year, which require foreign carriers to originate and conclude their flights in their home nation or an eligible country. Critics, including Wizz Air, argue these rules are discriminatory and breach Serbia's obligations under the ECAA. Serbian authorities contend these measures are aimed at aligning with Serbia’s status in the ECAA’s transitional period, allowing foreign airlines to serve Serbia only if their rotations begin outside the country.
The outcome of this dispute holds significant implications for Wizz Air’s operations in Serbia, with ongoing negotiations and legal considerations likely shaping the airline’s future presence at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. The airline maintains its commitment to operate through the upcoming winter season, pending a final decision from the authorities.
