Budget airline Wizz Air has introduced an innovative ‘all you can fly’ subscription service, allowing travelers to enjoy unlimited flights for an annual fee of €499 (£428, $549). This novel offering marks a significant shift in air travel, as unlimited flight packages are a relatively recent trend in the airline industry.
The subscription, which mirrors similar offerings in markets, is set to make a splash in Europe. However, Wizz Air has faced scrutiny in the UK regarding its customer service and ongoing flight delays.
Customers can take advantage of a discounted price for the annual pass until August 16, after which the cost will increase to €599. Starting in September, subscribers can fly to various destinations across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia by booking flights at least three days in advance for a flat fee of €9.99.
Wizz Air plans to sell 10,000 subscriptions, available at its operational airports. However, reports indicate that several preferred airport options have already sold out. A notification on the airline’s website stated that if travelers cannot select their desired airport, it is due to reaching the limit for that location, and new memberships may not be offered.
Terms and conditions clarify that seat availability for subscription holders is not guaranteed and will depend on multiple factors. In June, the airline was named the worst for flight delays in the UK for the third consecutive year, with an average delay of 31 minutes for departures from UK airports.
Consumer advocacy group Which? has also listed Wizz Air as the lowest performer in customer service. Recent developments include a €770,000 fine from Hungary’s competition authority for misleading communications, particularly regarding the promotion of pricier travel packages.
Additionally, Wizz Air reported a significant 44% decline in first-quarter operating profit and has revised its profit forecast for the entire year.
