Hungary’s newest airline commences operations
January 15, 2025
Hungary’s newest-established national airline has officially launched operations after securing its AOC, with its state-owned A330-200F freighter to resume cargo services between Hungary and China – a country with significant investment in the start-up carrier.
Founded in 2021 as Universal Translink Airline Hungary (UTA), the airline was rebranded in April 2024, receiving its AOC from the Hungarian Civil Aviation Authority in December. It operates one A330F, owned by the Hungarian state; making it the second airline (after Wizz Air) to call Budapest Airport its home base.
Budapest-based Hungarian-Chinese news outlet Új Szemle has previously suggested that the airline will run services to Hong Kong, although did not specify whether these would include provision for passengers. However, Hungary Airline’s ambitious 2024 MoU with Boeing – detailing its intention to acquire 100 737 MAX aircraft – would suggest that passenger services may ultimately complement cargo operations.
According to the Daily News Hungary, the head of the relations department at the Hungarian Export Promotion Agency (HEPA) has previously stated that “Hungary Airlines aims to become a global trademark and provide sustainable and effective air travel services” whilst strengthening the relationship between China and Hungary.
Trade publication Cargo Forwarder explains that Chinese businessman Wu Jiang (who is believed to reside in Hungary) owns more than a 50% stake in the airline, supported by co-founder and Chinese national Duan Bo. Other stakeholders include Beijing-based UTL Digital Logistics Co and Hungarian state-owned Air Hungary Szolgáltató.
