Wizz Air has delayed the launch date of its new Abu Dhabi operation by two weeks, citing ongoing Covid-19-related travel restrictions.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi had been scheduled to begin flights at the beginning of October but a spokesperson for the central European budget carrier confirms that it will “postpone the launch of its operations by two weeks to 16 October”.

Wizz Abu Dhabi

Source: Wizz Air

The airline attributes the delay to “prevailing Covid-19-related travel restrictions”.

Wizz Air is offering passengers who booked tickets for flights prior to 16 October a travel voucher worth 20% more than the original price they paid. The voucher, which is only available to customers who booked directly through the airline’s website or app, is valid for two years.

Passengers who opt for a refund “will be eligible for only 100% of the original fare”, says Wizz Air. It is advising customers who booked through travel agents to “get in touch with the company from which they purchased their tickets”.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi took delivery of its first aircraft, an Airbus A321neo, on 7 September. The carrier’s initial route network includes Athens, Larnaca, Alexandria, Odessa, Yerevan and Kutaisi.

The airline, which is a joint venture between Wizz Air and UAE holding company ADQ, plans to expand its fleet to six aircraft within six months.