Wizz Air is strengthening its position on the Moldovan market and estimates that it will control more than 60% of the local aviation market as it expands operations in Chisinau, the company’s Chief Commercial Officer Jan Malin said in an interview with Realitatea TV.
The official announced that Wizz Air will operate five aircraft in Chisinau and expects to offer around three million passenger seats annually. The company says it is focusing on increasing flight frequencies and strengthening existing routes rather than launching new destinations for now.
While many airlines are reducing operating capacity because of rising costs and conflicts in the Middle East, Wizz Air says it can continue expanding thanks to its hedging policy and modern Airbus A321neo fleet. According to Jan Malin, the company protects around 70% of its fuel needs through financial contracts, reducing the impact of rising fuel prices.
The Wizz Air executive acknowledged that current geopolitical tensions are affecting the global aviation industry, but he described the Republic of Moldova as a strategic market for the airline. He explained that the operator has reduced its exposure to markets considered unstable and is focusing on Central and Eastern Europe.
The company also stated that its new Airbus A321neo aircraft consume nearly 20% less fuel than older models, giving Wizz Air a competitive advantage during a period of volatile oil prices.
Wizz Air added that its investment in Moldova is creating hundreds of direct and indirect jobs. According to Jan Malin, each new aircraft requires cabin crew, pilots, and support services connected to the airport and the aviation industry.