BUCHAREST, ROMANIA – In a major development for air travel in Central and Eastern Europe, Wizz Air—the region’s largest low-cost carrier—has announced a sweeping expansion of its Bucharest network beginning October 2025. The airline will open a second aircraft base at Baneasa Airport (Aurel Vlaicu International Airport) and introduce six new routes from Otopeni Airport (Henri Coandă International Airport), reaffirming its commitment to improving regional connectivity and delivering affordable travel options across Romania.
This strategic move reinforces Wizz Air’s long-standing presence in Romania, where it has become a key player since entering the market in 2006. With this latest investment, the airline aims to ease passenger congestion, enhance flight frequency, and provide increased flexibility and pricing advantages to leisure and business travelers alike.
Strengthening Romania’s Aviation Landscape
The expansion underscores Bucharest’s status as Wizz Air’s most strategic market, according to Mauro Peneda, Managing Director of Wizz Air Malta. “By growing our presence at Baneasa and adding new routes at Otopeni, we’re meeting rising demand while bringing smart, low-cost travel even closer to our passengers,” Peneda stated.
This dual-airport approach reflects an innovative use of infrastructure within the Bucharest metropolitan area. With Baneasa Airport recently undergoing modernization, Wizz Air is positioning it as a viable alternative to the often busier Otopeni Airport, Romania’s main international gateway.
Route Relocations and New Destinations
Starting October 2025, the airline will base a second aircraft at Baneasa Airport, significantly increasing flight activity from the secondary terminal. Nine existing routes will be relocated from Otopeni to Baneasa. Among them, five destinations—Basel, Frankfurt Hahn, Memmingen, Nice, and Athens—will be served exclusively from Baneasa, relieving pressure on Otopeni and offering smoother travel experiences for passengers.
Additionally, four major European cities—Barcelona, Milan Bergamo, Brussels-Charleroi, and Turin—will be operated jointly from both Baneasa and Otopeni, enhancing travel flexibility for passengers living in different parts of Bucharest.
With this reshuffle, Wizz Air will operate 42 weekly flights from Baneasa, increasing overall frequency and improving travel options to Western Europe.
Otopeni Sees New Route Additions
At Otopeni Airport, Wizz Air is launching six new routes to further diversify its offerings. While the airline has yet to disclose the exact destinations, the move is part of its broader plan to serve rising winter travel demand for European city breaks, sunny getaways, and business corridors.
Otopeni will continue to act as a major hub in Wizz Air’s network, complementing Baneasa’s increased operational role. Together, the two airports will enhance travel access for millions of Romanians and visiting tourists.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Wizz Air’s continued growth is a substantial boost to Romania’s aviation economy. The airline now operates 204 routes from 13 Romanian airports, connecting passengers to 75 destinations in 25 countries. Its role as a low-cost leader has also positioned it as a major employer, with over 1,600 staff members in Romania, including pilots, cabin crew, and operations specialists.
This new phase of expansion is expected to stimulate tourism, trade, and local economic activity by offering affordable travel across Europe and drawing more visitors into Romania’s capital region.
Commitment to Sustainability and Modernization
Wizz Air’s expansion in Bucharest aligns with its broader commitment to sustainable aviation. The airline operates one of Europe’s youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets, with an average aircraft age of just over five years and over 300 Airbus A321neo and A320neo aircraft on order.
These new-generation aircraft boast significantly lower carbon emissions, supporting the company’s long-term environmental targets. The Bucharest-based aircraft will reflect this commitment, delivering modern comfort and efficiency while keeping fares low.
A Traveler-Focused Strategy for Romania
Romanian passengers have long embraced budget-friendly travel, and Wizz Air’s focus on affordability ensures that it remains a preferred choice. The airline’s flexible model, low base fares, and optional add-ons make it an accessible option for young travelers, families, students, and business professionals alike.
Travelers can now choose from multiple flight times, airport departure points, and a broader set of destinations—especially important during the upcoming winter 2025 season, when demand for both city getaways and warmer climates traditionally spikes.
Wizz Air has also enhanced its digital booking platform, offering mobile check-ins, flight change options, bundled fares, and loyalty rewards through the WIZZ Discount Club, adding more value to the low-cost travel experience.
Conclusion: A New Era for Bucharest Air Travel
Wizz Air’s October 2025 expansion represents a transformative step in Romania’s air travel landscape. By creating a second operational base at Baneasa and diversifying services at Otopeni, the airline is reinforcing its commitment to affordable, accessible, and sustainable travel.
Whether for business or pleasure, Romanian travelers will enjoy greater route choices, better pricing, and increased convenience, thanks to Wizz Air’s continued investment in the country. This growth not only supports national infrastructure but also strengthens Romania’s connection to the rest of Europe—one low-cost flight at a time.
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