Budget Airline Launching New Flight From U.S. To One Of Europe’s Most Underrated Cities

Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday?

Well, another European budget airline seems to think otherwise.

Set to launch an exciting new flight to one of Europe’s most underrated cities, Americans already have something to look forward to next year.

And with all the craziness in the news cycle right now, can’t we all benefit from something positive, like a dreamy trip abroad?

That’s the case for one iconic U.S. city ready to welcome a groundbreaking flight to a stunning (and insanely affordable) destination that hasn’t been connected by direct flights in 24 years.

Set to add their second flight from U.S. soil, little-known airline HiSky is ready to impress with low fares and routes that actually make sense — and let’s all hope they have a better business plan than Spirit…

Is Bucharest On Your Bingo Card? It Should Be!

Bucharest, Romania (not to be confused with Budapest), doesn’t come anywhere close to the level of popularity that places like Paris, Athens, and Barcelona see, but the truth is that more travelers are braving the world to explore the lesser-known.

While Bucharest is far too big to be considered a “hidden gem”, it still lacks the household recognition many other European cities hold.

Romania’s capital is very budget-friendly, aesthetically magnetizing, and lacks the fluff of the other guys, just like us at Travel Off Path. 😎

While not fluffy per se, every major European city must have a vibrant Old Town, right?

This is the heart of the city where tourists tend to flock for astounding architecture dating back centuries, cozy cafes, and traditional restaurants that surely won’t break the bank, so be prepared to indulge in dessert.

Papanasi, anyone? 🍩

Though some of the city on the outskirts of Old Town offers a totally different vibe, given its Soviet past — and it shows with drab buildings lacking the same character.

The same can’t be said for King Michael I Park, a sprawling park beaming with autumn foliage this time of year and home to the tranquil Lake Herăstrău, which is gorgeous any season.

HiSky’s Historic New Flight From Chicago

According to HiSky’s official press release, “Chicago becomes the second U.S. city to which the airline resumes direct flights, 24 years after the suspension of this route”.

In other words, Chicagoans would have to have an annoying layover to visit this vastly under-hyped city prior to HiSky’s new route.

Slated for launch on June 4, 2026, there’s plenty of time to plan ahead. Of course, Chicagoans know hordes of tourists invade their own city for the vivid blue waters of Lake Michigan, world-class eats, museums, and so much more, that it’s the perfect time to get out of dodge.

The flight is estimated to take off at 9:00 a.m. and last 10 hours and 50 minutes, operating twice a week.

HiSky is currently the only airline offering U.S.-Romania flights — and they’re proud to show it!

Despite a launch date 9 months away, tickets can already be purchased.

In typically HiSky fashion (just like their New York-Bucharest launch in 2023), promo fares are available.

By visiting HiSky’s official website, you can score direct flights for just $410.

What To Expect Aboard HiSky Planes

I’ve been on some crammed seats on budget airlines, but certainly not for approximately 11 hours in the clouds.

So, what are travelers saying about their flight experiences with HiSky?

According to Air Advisor, travelers have given HiSky a score of 2 stars out of 5. The caveat is that there are only 3 reviews listed.

The first review states their ‘check-in online fee is useless,’ and the second review is a perfect 5/5, giving an enthusiastic shoutout to the friendly flight attendants.

All in all, across the board online, ranging from Reddit to random travel boards, it appears to be a mixed bag of experiences.

There is no wifi on board, but there is a seat-back infotainment system with a decent amount of movies and shows to cover 11 hours.

So, it appears HiSky has gone above and beyond Spirit’s business plan after all, especially as they allow carry-ons with Basic seats and their policy states “a hot meal + snack are included for every passenger”.