Wizz Air UK Secures Approval for World Cup Charter Flights

‍LONDON — Wizz Air UK (W9) has secured approval to operate special charter flights between the United Kingdom and the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The flights will transport European football teams and fans traveling to the tournament. While this represents a major expansion in the carrier’s international outreach, the airline says the operations will be seasonal only and not permanent.

“We are ready to deliver exceptional charter experiences and bring fans closer to the action in the United States,” said Yvonne Moynihan, Managing Director of Wizz Air UK.

Beyond football-related travel, W9 said the charter service will also be available for corporate groups, sports organisations, tour operators, and private travellers seeking transatlantic connectivity.

A321XLR powers Wizz Air UK's World Cup flights

The special charter flights are expected to be operated using the carrier’s new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. According to planespotters.net, W9 currently has three A321XLRs in its fleet, all delivered last year. The aircraft are configured in an all-economy layout with 239 seats, as expected from a low-cost carrier.

The A321XLR is Airbus’s ultra-long-range aircraft. Despite being a narrowbody, it offers exceptional range, making it well-suited for transatlantic routes with niche demand. 

The introduction of this route and the new flights highlight how the aircraft is transforming the long-haul aviation landscape. W9 is based at London Luton Airport (LTN).