Wizz Air Accuses Serbia of Forcing It Out of Belgrade Base

Wizz Air has publicly condemned the Serbian government over what it describes as a deliberate effort to force the airline out of its Belgrade base operations from November 2026, accusing authorities of breaching the country's obligations under the European Common Aviation Area Agreement.

The Hungarian low-cost carrier claims the measures are designed to protect Air Serbia, the state-backed national carrier, from legitimate competition. Wizz Air alleges that Air Serbia has received the equivalent of hundreds of millions of euros in government support while Wizz has independently invested several hundred million euros in Serbia since establishing operations there in 2010, transporting more than 14 million passengers and building a network of 29 routes to 26 cities across 10 countries.

The airline warns that a forced closure of its Belgrade base would result in the loss of more than 150 direct airline jobs and thousands of additional positions in tourism, hospitality, and airport services. Serbian consumers would face reduced competition, fewer route options, and higher fares, while the country's tourism sector and broader economy would suffer significant damage.

"The measures they plan to use against Wizz Air are illegal," said Owain Jones, Chief Corporate Officer of Wizz Air. "We call on the Serbian authorities to stop discriminatory practices immediately, respect international obligations, and allow fair and transparent market conditions for all airlines operating in Serbia."

Wizz Air has called on the European Union to ensure Serbia upholds its international agreements, noting the dispute raises questions about the country's commitments as an EU candidate state. The airline says it remains committed to its Belgrade operations and Serbian passengers while urging authorities to reverse course.