Bad news for Brnik: Wizz Air reveals why it is not opening a base in Ljubljana

Wizz Air has confirmed it does not currently plan to open a base in Ljubljana or Zagreb, citing high operational costs as the main obstacle. The low-cost airline, which operates under its own brand, stated during internal discussions with employees that both airports fail to meet the conditions necessary for such expansion. Despite this, the company emphasized its continued interest in the Slovenian market, noting its potential. The decision comes after months of speculation about a possible return to Zagreb, fueled by reports that the city's airport introduced new incentives for airlines. However, according to Wizz Air’s management, these factors have not been sufficient to change their current strategy. Instead, the airline continues to monitor opportunities in both markets, though it has not ruled out future flights to Zagreb. Currently, flights from Ljubljana operate to two destinations, while Zagreb has not been served by Wizz Air for over a decade. Wizz Air’s leadership highlighted that Slovenia offers considerable untapped potential, particularly if operating costs were more favorable. They noted that the existing network of routes from Ljubljana does not fully reflect the country’s capacity for growth. “If the conditions were more favorable, especially regarding access costs to the main airport, Slovenia would present a significant opportunity,” the company stated in recent communications. In recent months, Wizz Air has significantly expanded its operations in Croatia, adding more than ten new seasonal routes to cities such as Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Rijeka. This growth has positioned the airline as the fourth largest low-cost carrier on the Croatian market, behind Ryanair, easyJet, and Eurowings. The expansion was made possible after the airline gradually resolved issues related to engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, which had previously led to the grounding of approximately 60 Airbus A320neo aircraft. As the number of grounded planes decreased, the company was able to expand its route network. Commercial director Ian Malin acknowledged the rapid growth the company has experienced this year, estimating a roughly 30 percent increase in operations. He indicated that the airline will adopt a more measured approach going forward, focusing instead on strengthening its existing network rather than pursuing ambitious new ventures. The goal is to improve competitiveness and reduce operational costs through increased frequency on established routes. While Wizz Air has not dismissed the possibility of expanding into Slovenia in the future, it has made it clear that opening a base in either Ljubljana or Zagreb is not part of its immediate plans. The company continues to assess the market, keeping a close eye on developments that could make such an expansion viable. For now, the focus remains on maintaining and optimizing the current fleet and route structure.