Emirates, a global catalyst of trade and business, launched a daily nonstop service to Budapest, marking its first entry into Hungary.

Emirates’ daily flight to Budapest is operated with a wide-body Airbus A330-200 aircraft in a two-class configuration. The inaugural flight on Monday was welcomed by Jost Lammers, CEO, Budapest Airport, along with partners from the travel trade and local media, at a special reception held at the airport.

A contingent comprising Zoltan Jancsi, ambassador of Hungary to the UAE and other business leaders, accompanied by senior Emirates representatives, were present on the inaugural flight.

“Our new daily service to Budapest will stimulate growth and provide new opportunities for Hungarian trade and tourism, through greater connectivity via our hub in Dubai. Both businesses and individuals in Hungary will benefit from enhanced links that Emirates will provide to over 60 destinations in the Far East and Australasia, West Asia, Indian Ocean and Middle East. We believe this new route will support Hungary’s aims to develop closer trade links with the East, and be a catalyst for further trade and tourism growth,” said Thierry Antinori, EVP and chief commercial officer at Emirates.

“I have no doubt that our Hungarian customers will appreciate Emirates’ excellent product and award-winning service. Emirates’ new daily service will create additional air links to boost Budapest’s accessibility and, at the same time, we are also glad Hungarian travelers have better access to our global network, and vibrant home in Dubai — to enjoy the city’s hospitality, world-class attractions, warm weather and beautiful, sandy beaches.”

"Budapest Airport is delighted to once again celebrate a milestone in Hungarian aviation history,” commented Jost Lammers, CEO, Budapest Airport. “With tourism numbers to Budapest outperforming most European markets and robust GDP forecasts, we are confident that now is the ideal time to celebrate this route launch."