Wizz Air Strands Hungarian Passengers in Dubai?

Has Wizz Air Let Down Hungarian Passengers in Dubai? - Increasing Complaints About Flight Delays

In recent days, numerous Hungarian passengers have reported unpleasant experiences regarding Wizz Air flights on the Dubai–Budapest route. The airline's flight scheduled for 06.23 at 9:55 PM did not depart at the planned time, leaving passengers essentially stranded with neither accommodation nor specific information about the situation provided.

What Did the Passengers Experience?

One of them stated:

“Hello! I’m writing this to anyone who would have traveled yesterday, 06.23, with the 9:55 PM evening flight. We just talked to Wizz Air customer service. They said they won’t pay for the Intercontinental accommodation! You must request an itemized invoice and submit it to them, and they will refund it. Also, don’t expect them to reach out... because they said everyone has to buy a new ticket, and everyone has to manage on their own. I wish everyone strength.”

Based on the above account, passengers did not receive automatic assistance, and Wizz Air allegedly instructed them to stay at their own expense and later request a refund—if at all successful. Additionally, the return trip is not arranged: passengers must purchase a new ticket.

Why Is This a Problem?

In situations where an airline cancels or significantly delays a flight, it would be expected to provide at least basic needs—accommodation, meals, information—to passengers. The budget model does not exempt the provider from obligations, especially not on an international flight, where passengers often devote significant money and time just to get to the airport.

What Can Affected Individuals Do?

According to official information, Wizz Air may request the submission of an itemized accommodation invoice, and then they can refund the amount. It is important that the invoice is in the passenger’s name, includes the dates and services used.

Moreover, it is worthwhile to claim compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004, which in specific cases can provide significant compensation—assuming the flight departs from the EU or is conducted by an EU-registered airline. Although the Dubai–Budapest flight departs from outside the EU, since Wizz Air is an EU-registered airline, passengers theoretically have the right to file a complaint.

Is There a Solution?

Many suggest that if someone finds themselves in a similar situation, they should document everything immediately: the content of conversations, hotel costs, airport information boards, and contact the airline's customer service in writing promptly. It's also beneficial to turn to an independent consumer protection organization or the national aviation authority for assistance.

Summary

The current case highlights that Wizz Air’s services do not always ensure the treatment passengers expect in a crisis situation. Passengers must be prepared to act independently in such cases and only later—if at all—receive a refund or compensation. This is particularly difficult when a person is in a foreign country, at night, tired, and without assistance.

The incident is not unique, and likely not the last. Therefore, it’s advisable to research in advance what rights passengers have and what alternatives exist in such a situation.

(The article is based on reports from Hungarian passengers.)