Wizz Air and European carriers suspend flights amid Ukraine crisis

Just like its European counterparts, Wizz Air has suspended its flights to and from Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia, with the Hungarian airline’s president, Jozsef Varadi, discussing the potential of re-entering these markets post-conflict. "It is not in Europe's interest to cede Russia to China's sphere of influence," he stated.

During a briefing with Polish journalists, Varadi commented on the future of Russian destinations in the aviation map, post-Ukraine war, saying, "I think Russia as a destination and market will return, though it won't be immediate and will require some time."

The airline previously enjoyed a thriving route network in Russia, offering flights to St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Kazan. This expansion faced a halt first due to the COVID-19 outbreak and then by the Russian military aggression in Ukraine on 24 February 2022.

Wizz Air’s strategy in Russia

Varadi explained that Wizz Air had negotiated a base agreement with St. Petersburg, allowing operations without establishing a separate airline entity in Russia. This arrangement aimed to boost tourism and business exchanges between St. Petersburg and Europe. The launch of free e-visas for citizens of 53 countries, including Poland, for stays up to eight days in St. Petersburg since 2019 also played a supportive role.

Following the war's outbreak, Wizz Air, through its UAE subsidiary, aimed to restart flights from Abu Dhabi to Moscow, initially suspended on 27 February 2022, planning for an October resumption. However, the plan faced backlash and was eventually dropped in August due to supply chain issues, with Western producers halting aircraft part deliveries to Russia.

Varadi addressed the possibility of reintroducing flights to Russia and the use of its airspace for EU carriers' Far East flights. He highlighted the quicker potential restoration of air links between Ukraine and Europe, contrasting with the more prolonged process for Russia, which "must first be punished and feel the repercussions from Europe."

Ryanair, another major carrier, also envisions the resumption of regular flights to Ukraine possibly within eight weeks after the Ukrainian airspace reopens.

Despite Russia's actions in Ukraine, Varadi believes Russia will not remain perpetually isolated from Europe and global aviation, recalling post-World War II Germany’s reintegration into the international community and the future European Union. "Giving Russia over to China's influence is not in Europe's interest," Varadi assessed.

Reopening Russia’s airspace crucial amidst China's market reopening

The civil aviation sector has contemplated reopening Russian airspace for transits, especially with China's market resurgence, according to Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general, in December 2022. Despite the ongoing conflict and its impacts, efforts to rebuild air connections between Asia and the rest of the world continue, with flights to and from China still not reaching pre-pandemic levels.

Finnair and the closure of Russian airspace

Finland’s Finnair has been notably affected by the EU's barring of Russian airspace, disrupting its established Far East flight advantage. The airline now circumvents Russia, leading to 10-40% longer flight times to Asian destinations, impacting fuel costs, crew workload, and aircraft rotations.

Finnair has adjusted by diversifying its network, now offering connections not just to Asia but also India, the Middle East, and North America. In response to potential future developments, the airline has planned for a prolonged absence of access to Russian airspace.