Direct flight to connect Budapest and Philadelphia from 2026
'This is more than just a new route—it brings new opportunities for Hungary,' Minister Nagy stated. He emphasized the benefits for travel, tourism, and economic cooperation, noting that the flight will make business and leisure travel significantly easier.
Nagy framed the announcement as part of broader ambitions in Hungary's US relations. 'We've always said Donald Trump's presidency opens new paths between our countries,' he said, adding: 'Anyone who knows us knows we won't stop here—we keep working.'
The new route marks a strategic step in strengthening bilateral ties, with the government signaling its intention to secure further direct air links and expand economic engagement with the United States.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Budapest Times
15 hours ago
- Budapest Times
Visit Hungary CEO: Renewed Budapest–Philadelphia flight a boost for Hungarian tourism
The restart of a direct flight between Budapest and Philadelphia after a six-year hiatus is excellent news for both Hungarian tourism and the business sector, said Olivér Csendes, CEO of Visit Hungary Zrt., in an interview with TV2's Mokka programme. Csendes outlined medium- and long-term goals for the service, which will initially operate seasonally from May to October in its first year. He expressed hope that strong passenger numbers would persuade American Airlines to make the route year-round, and that other carriers might follow by offering direct flights from additional US cities to Budapest. Nearly 400,000 American tourists visit Hungary annually, and the CEO noted that the new route should make travel easier, more predictable, and potentially less expensive. He said US visitors are particularly drawn to Hungary's architectural heritage, cultural attractions, wine regions, and Danube river cruises. The daily service will depart Budapest at 11:25 and arrive in Philadelphia at 15:00 local time, returning in the evening to reach Liszt Ferenc International Airport at 09:25 the following day. Csendes highlighted that Philadelphia is one of American Airlines' largest hubs, offering 100 direct connections across the United States — effectively opening up all of North America to travellers from Hungary.
Budapest Times
a day ago
- Budapest Times
Zsófia Koncz: 343 thousand families supported through CSOK plus, rural CSOK and baby-expecting loan
Zsófia Koncz, State Secretary for Families at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, announced on Tuesday that the CSOK Plus, rural CSOK, and baby-expecting loan have helped 343,000 families achieve their housing goals in recent years. In a Facebook video, she highlighted that these government programs remain highly popular, providing substantial support for home purchases, construction, or expansion. From September, the new Otthon Start program will launch, offering a fixed 3% interest loan for first-time buyers, with repayments unchanged for up to 25 years. Koncz stressed that the new loan can be combined with existing family support measures, including the baby-expecting loan, CSOK Plus, and rural CSOK. Under the changes, the property value limit for a first jointly owned home purchased with CSOK Plus rises from 80 million forints to 100 million for apartments and 150 million for houses. She added that the combination of CSOK Plus and rural CSOK benefits—such as exemption from property transfer tax and VAT refunds—maximizes opportunities for families. The related government decree has undergone public consultation, with feedback now being reviewed. Family organizations welcome the fixed 3% loan, calling it the most significant home creation program since the democratic transition, Koncz said, noting it will aid not only home acquisition but also family formation and childbearing.
Budapest Times
3 days ago
- Budapest Times
Over HUF 20 billion to develop aquaculture by 2027
The Hungarian government will provide more than HUF 20 billion in funding for aquaculture development by 2027 under the Hungarian Fisheries Operational Programme Plus (MAHOP Plus), Minister of Agriculture István Nagy announced at a press conference in Budapest on Monday. Speaking at the Hungarian National Anglers' Association's (MOHOSZ) annual public service report presentation, Nagy said MOHOSZ can receive 100% funding for projects such as creating, restoring, and improving habitats and spawning grounds for native fish species, as well as reducing invasive fish populations. He underlined that aquaculture plays a vital role in sustaining healthy and high-quality fish supplies for Hungary's angling waters. According to ministry data, last year fishing took place over 160,000 hectares of registered fisheries and 26,000 hectares of fish ponds. A total of 4,879 tonnes of fish were caught, with angling accounting for 4,614 tonnes—an increase of 2.8% compared to the previous year. Stocking activities in 2024 reached 4,071 tonnes, with the total value of released fish amounting to HUF 6.7 billion. Nagy said the government's commitment through MAHOP Plus reflects both ecological and economic priorities, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Hungary's fish stocks and the continued growth of the angling sector.
