This budget airline is launching cheap flights from the UK to America this summer

Heading to see England or Scotland (or potentially Wales, if they qualify) play footie at the World Cup in the big ol’ US of A this summer? You’re set to have a slightly more affordable way of getting there. Budget airline Wizz Air UK has received the necessary permits to fly UK passengers to the US for the tournament.

Held in 11 cities across the States, as well as three in Mexico and two in Canada, the prestigious kickabout is due to take place from June 11 to July 19. 

The Hungarian airline has announced that it anticipates interest in its flights from football teams taking part in the World Cup, but that it will also open routes up to tour operators organising group travel to the US, sports organisations and private travellers. The new authorisation means Wizz will operate tailored charter flights.

So, does this mark the beginning of Wizz Air offering affordable transatlantic flights? Well, not quite. While the carrier unveiled plans for UK-US flights in January, Wizz says it has ‘no intention or plans to provide regular commercial flights to the country’.

Yvonne Moynihan, managing director of Wizz Air UK, said: ‘This is a proud and exciting day for everyone at our airline.

‘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.’

With 48 teams and 104 matches involved, the 2026 World Cup is set to be the biggest edition of the football tournament ever – with demand for seats to match. No wonder Wizz is looking to get in on the action. 

Festivities are already being prepared for the World Cup. As Time Out New York reported yesterday (March 9), a new bill introduced in the New York State Assembly could allow cities and towns across the state to create temporary ‘entertainment zones’ where fans can legally drink outside.

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