Hungary Airlines has obtained regulatory permits – A new Hungarian airline on the horizon? ✈️
Hungary Airlines has reached an important milestone after securing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Operating License (OL), officially entering the Hungarian aviation market. The company has also taken over the operation of the state-owned Airbus A330F cargo aircraft and has already begun conducting training flights.
Why is this step significant?
✅ Own ICAO code and call sign – The airline received the “HUA” ICAO code and “BUDAPEST” call sign, which it has already used during test flights.
✅ Test flights from Budapest to Kecskemét – The first test flight was conducted on December 23, 2024, followed by several training flights between Budapest and Kecskemét on January 4-5, 2025.
✅ Launch of international flights – On January 5, the Airbus A330F flew to Shanghai under flight number HUA 951, likely for maintenance purposes.
✅ EASA Part-CAMO certification – Hungary Airlines already holds the certification required to ensure continuous airworthiness.
Who is behind Hungary Airlines?
Founded in 2021, the company originally operated as Universal Translink Airline Hungary Kft. (UTA), then briefly as Hungary Cargo Airlines Kft., before adopting the name Hungary Airlines Kft. in April 2024. For years, the company has been transporting cargo between China and Hungary, primarily using leased aircraft.
Will there be passenger flights too?
Although Hungary Airlines currently operates as a cargo airline, it’s not ruled out that it may launch passenger flights in the future.
🔸 In November 2024, Hungary Airlines’ president, Duan Bo, signed a letter of intent with Boeing to acquire Boeing 737 MAX passenger aircraft. Though Chinese media later removed the news, this could suggest that plans remain in motion.
🔸 In 2023, the company announced at a professional conference its intent to introduce Boeing 777-300ERSF cargo aircraft into service, though these planes have not yet arrived.
What does this mean for Hungary?
🇭🇺 Hungary Airlines’ acquisition of permits could bring a new, potentially strong player to Hungarian aviation.
📦 The strengthening of the cargo sector could contribute to Budapest becoming a key aviation and logistics hub.
🛫 The possibility of a new passenger airline offers exciting prospects for many in the future.
Hungary Airlines’ next steps will be crucial, and many are watching to see whether, alongside cargo operations, the first passenger flights in Hungarian colors will take off too! 🚀