Wizz Air Accelerates Its Expansion in Italy: New Base in Palermo and the Largest Growth Program for 2026

Wizz Air continues to reinforce its position as one of Europe's fastest-growing airlines. The company has officially opened its new operational base at Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport, marking another milestone in its ambitious expansion strategy in the Italian market.

The first phase includes two modern Airbus A321neo aircraft based in Palermo. A third aircraft will join the base on 6 September, significantly expanding the airline's route network. Following the launch of the new Tirana service, Wizz Air will operate 18 routes from Palermo to 13 countries, offering passengers more than 1.3 million seats throughout 2026.

This is particularly important for investors: opening a new base represents a long-term capital investment that airlines undertake only when they have a high degree of confidence in future passenger demand and aircraft utilization.

Andrievskii Verdict

Wizz Air continues to strengthen the foundation for its future growth, while Italy is becoming one of the company's key growth engines in Europe.

The new base is not only an expansion of the route network but also a significant economic investment. The project is expected to create 120 direct jobs and support more than 1,050 indirect jobs, contributing to tourism, regional connectivity, and the economy of Sicily.

At the same time, Wizz Air is strengthening its presence across Italy. Starting in December, the airline will launch six new international routes, connecting Milan, Venice, Rome, and Naples with Berlin, Cagliari, Tromsø, Santiago de Compostela, and Hurghada.

In addition, Wizz Air will station its twelfth Airbus A321neo at its largest Italian base in Milan Malpensa, creating 40 additional direct jobs and supporting more than 350 indirect jobs.

By the end of 2026, Wizz Air's Italian network will reach 329 routes across 33 countries, making Italy one of the company's most important growth markets.

The fleet expansion, increasing number of routes, and continued focus on Europe's largest aviation markets indicate that Wizz Air is moving from a period of recovery into a new phase of business expansion.

We continue to view Wizz Air as our highest-conviction investment idea in the European aviation sector. Its consistent expansion strategy, modern Airbus A321neo fleet, and strong business model provide a solid foundation for further long-term shareholder value creation.

Aleksei Andrievskii | Advisory Board Member, Bendura Bank AG | Liechtenstein