El Al Opposes Wizz Air’s Plan to Establish an Operations Base in Israel
Israel’s national airline, El Al, has objected to the Ministry of Transport’s initiative to allow Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air to establish a permanent operations base in Israel. The ministry’s move aims to boost competition and lower ticket prices.
In an official letter sent to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Transport Minister Miri Regev, El Al described the plan as an “extreme step” and a “dangerous precedent.” Signed by the company’s senior management, the letter argued that the decision would inflict serious economic harm on Israeli airlines and pose risks to both national security and passenger safety.
The airline emphasized that Israeli-based carriers face heavier economic and security obligations compared to foreign operators, which benefit from certain exemptions. El Al also noted that in times of crisis, foreign airlines suspend flights, while Israeli carriers continue their international operations.
Under the plan, Wizz Air would deploy crews in Israel, increase its number of flights, and reduce its operational costs. The initiative, spearheaded by Minister Regev, is seen as part of a broader liberalization reform in the aviation sector.
El Al further warned that opening a new base at Ben Gurion Airport would worsen slot shortages and negatively impact local airlines’ access to the airport’s already limited capacity.
Wizz Air’s top management is expected to visit Israel next month to advance talks with officials. In response to the criticism, the Transport Ministry stated that a comprehensive review considering all professional and economic factors was being conducted. The ministry added: “Our goal is to provide citizens with better service, increase competition, and lower prices. The final decision will be made after consultations with all relevant parties.”
