Czech carrier Smartwings introduced two network changes on 26 October: a new Prague–Brussels service and an upgraded charter-style Prague–Bucharest rotation that will now run year-round. The moves align with the airline’s strategy to capture point-to-point demand outside its traditional leisure niche.
The Brussels flight operates five times weekly with B737-800 aircraft, targeting EU-institution traffic and Czech exporters with supply chains in Belgium. Company travel managers say the new nonstop replaces time-consuming transfers via Amsterdam or Frankfurt and could save up to three billable hours per round trip for consultants.
Meanwhile, Smartwings has converted its seasonal Bucharest charter into a scheduled service, citing steady demand from both VFR (visiting friends and relatives) and project-based corporate travel. Introductory fares undercut full-service rivals by 20 percent, though extras such as seat selection and checked baggage carry fees.
Analysts note that the carrier—facing rising competition on Mediterranean leisure routes—needs year-round utilisation for its fleet. Expanding into short-haul business markets helps smooth seasonality but will test Smartwings’ service credentials against established network airlines.
The Brussels flight operates five times weekly with B737-800 aircraft, targeting EU-institution traffic and Czech exporters with supply chains in Belgium. Company travel managers say the new nonstop replaces time-consuming transfers via Amsterdam or Frankfurt and could save up to three billable hours per round trip for consultants.
Meanwhile, Smartwings has converted its seasonal Bucharest charter into a scheduled service, citing steady demand from both VFR (visiting friends and relatives) and project-based corporate travel. Introductory fares undercut full-service rivals by 20 percent, though extras such as seat selection and checked baggage carry fees.
Analysts note that the carrier—facing rising competition on Mediterranean leisure routes—needs year-round utilisation for its fleet. Expanding into short-haul business markets helps smooth seasonality but will test Smartwings’ service credentials against established network airlines.
