Wizz Air Abu Dhabi Suspends Routes Amid Fleet, Engine Issues

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is suspending several routes across Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus as part of a network realignment. The changes come amid ongoing operational challenges linked to grounded aircraft and engine supply issues.

The low-cost carrier, a joint venture between Hungary-based Wizz Air and Abu Dhabi’s ADQ, has halted ticket sales for five routes: Varna (from July 14), Belgrade (July 19), Tirana (July 20), Kutaisi (July 29), and Sarajevo (August 31). Additionally, six other destinations will see temporary suspensions: Krakow (July 29–Sept. 19), Budapest (paused until Sept. 1), Vienna (paused until Sept. 21), Katowice (paused until Oct. 26), and both Astana and Samarkand (paused until Nov. 1). Services to Sofia and Cluj have already ended.

While Wizz Air has not specified the reason for the cuts, the decision follows widespread groundings across its fleet due to issues with Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. About 20% of Wizz Air’s A320neo-family aircraft were out of service during fiscal 2025.

CEO József Váradi has said the airline is reducing flights in “hot and harsh” environments—areas with high heat and air quality issues—to preserve engine life and reduce operational costs. Capacity is being shifted to more stable, lower-risk regions.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi currently operates 119 weekly flights to 23 destinations using a fleet of 12 aircraft. Despite the setbacks, the airline posted a net profit of €213.9 million ($244.4 million) for the fiscal year ending March 2025, down 42% year-over-year.

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