Vueling returns to Budapest Airport with seasonal service to Bilbao

Budapest Airport, operated by Vinci Airports, has welcomed the return of Vueling Airlines, marking its first service from the Hungarian gateway since the pandemic. The Spanish airline will operate six flights between Budapest and Bilbao, providing a unique connection between the two cities during the holiday season. This seasonal route will run from 5 December 2024, through to 1 January 2025.

Budapest Airport celebrates the return of Vueling Airlines as the airline launches a seasonal service to Bilbao.

Vueling will operate the 1,782km sector utilising its 180-seat Airbus A320s. With no other airline connecting Budapest and Bilbao, Vueling’s service provides a distinctive travel opportunity for passengers to explore the vibrant culture and renowned Christmas markets of both cities, including Budapest’s celebrated market at Vörösmarty Square and the festive atmosphere of Bilbao’s holiday market stalls, offering a convenient and seasonal link for holiday travellers.

As per IATA data, the indirect air traffic between Bilbao and Budapest has grown by 30% year-to-date August and Budapest estimates over 15,000 connecting passengers in 2025, having Bilbao as the largest unserved city-pair of Budapest in Spain.

“We warmly welcome Vueling back to Budapest Airport after 4 years of hiatus,” said Máté Ritter, Head of Airline Development, Budapest Airport. “Their decision to commence this route is a strong vote of confidence of a potential successful operation in the winter period. We truly hope to see Bilbao online again soon, joining other airlines who already plan expansion at Budapest in 2025.”

Travellers looking to explore the magic of Christmas in either Budapest or Bilbao can now take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect two enchanting destinations, fostering new cultural and tourism exchanges.