The airline confirmed it had officially secured the necessary permits to operate UK US services, marking a significant milestone for the carrier. However, the airline said it has no plans to introduce regular commercial flights on the route.
Instead, the authorisation will allow the airline to operate tailored charter services, which could include transporting European football teams, supporters and tour groups heading to the tournament.
The 2026 men’s World Cup will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with many matches scheduled to take place in American host cities.
Wizz Air UK said the permit would enable it to design flexible charter packages for sports organisations, tour operators and large corporate groups, particularly during the World Cup travel period.
Yvonne Moynihan, managing director of Wizz Air UK, said: "This is a proud and exciting day for everyone at our airline."
She added: "Receiving approval to operate between the UK and the United States is a huge milestone for our company. It opens the door to incredible opportunities, particularly for European football teams and supporters travelling across the Atlantic this summer. We are ready to deliver exceptional charter experiences and bring fans closer to the action in the United States."
The announcement comes as new research suggests football fans travelling to the tournament could benefit from lower transatlantic fares.
Analysis by aviation data company OAG found that ticket prices from Europe to eight of the 11 host cities for June and July 2026 have fallen compared with the same period last year.
However, aviation analysts say prices could still fluctuate as demand grows closer to the tournament.
Aviation data specialist John Grant told The Independent: "I suspect that transatlantic fares could fall further, although from the UK the upcoming APD air passenger duty increases do not help."
The new charter capability could provide additional options for teams and supporters looking to travel to the World Cup, particularly as airlines prepare for increased demand during one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
