Skopje, 4 September 2025 (MIA) - We are strengthening our presence in North Macedonia by basing a sixth aircraft in Skopje and adding 13 new routes to our already extensive network, says Wizz Air CEO József Váradi in an interview with MIA.

Váradi says Wizz Air is launching several new from Skopje to Bari, Naples, Budapest, Cologne, Stuttgart, Larnaca, Madrid, Prague and Stockholm, while 4 new routes from Ohrid to Basel, Milan, Katowice, Wroclaw.

He adds that Wizz Air has been operating in North Macedonia for over a decade, becoming the country’s largest airline.

Wizz Air has recently announced the addition of a sixth aircraft to its Skopje base in December. Could you tell us what this expansion means for your operations in North Macedonia?

We are very excited to strengthen our presence in North Macedonia by basing a sixth aircraft in Skopje and adding 13 new routes to our already extensive network. This expansion demonstrates our long-term commitment to the country. It allows us to add new routes, increase frequencies on popular destinations, and ultimately give our passengers more choice and flexibility at our famously low fares paired with high quality. North Macedonia is one of our most important markets in the West Balkans, and Skopje continues to be a base of growth for Wizz Air.

Can you share details about the new routes that will be introduced as part of this expansion?

With the sixth aircraft, we are launching several new and exciting routes from Skopje to Bari, Naples, Budapest, Cologne, Stuttgart, Larnaca, Madrid, Prague and Stockholm, while 4 new routes from Ohrid to Basel, Milan, Katowice, Wroclaw. These include both leisure hotspots and important cities for business and family travel. We will also increase capacity on existing routes where demand is strong. Our aim is to connect North Macedonia with as many European destinations as possible, making travel more affordable and accessible for everyone.

How do you see Wizz Air contributing to the continuous development of North Macedonia’s aviation and tourism sector?

Wizz Air has been operating in North Macedonia for over a decade, and during this time we have become the country’s largest airline. By offering low-cost travel options, we make it easier for tourists to visit North Macedonia and discover its natural beauty, culture, and hospitality. This boosts tourism revenues, fosters business connections, and strengthens the country’s integration with Europe.

Beyond connectivity, what economic benefits does Wizz Air bring to North Macedonia with this new aircraft?

Each aircraft we base in a country generates significant direct and indirect economic impact. With the sixth aircraft in Skopje, we are creating new local jobs for cabin crew, pilots, and engineers, as well as opportunities across the aviation supply chain, from ground handling to catering and maintenance. Moreover, the influx of visitors flying with us supports hotels, restaurants, and small businesses throughout the country. This multiplier effect is one of the biggest benefits of our expansion.

Finally, what new employment opportunities can young professionals in North Macedonia expect with this development?

We are proud to be an employer of choice in North Macedonia. With this expansion, we will be hiring new cabin crew members, pilots, and our maintenance partner will need more engineers. Wizz Air offers excellent training and career development opportunities, and we are committed to nurturing local talent. Many of our Macedonian colleagues have grown into leadership roles within the company. We see this as an investment not only in Wizz Air’s future but also in the professional development of the country’s young workforce.

Photo: MIA