Jet2 has revealed its plans to introduce 26 new flights to various sunny destinations in Europe. The budget airline is set to launch flights and holiday packages from Gatwick Airport, with slots secured for six aircraft following the airport’s release of additional capacity. Jet2 will base five Airbus A321neo aircraft at Gatwick and position an extra aircraft overseas. The inaugural flight from Gatwick to Tenerife, Spain, is scheduled for March 26 next year.
Jet2, known for its viral adverts featuring Jess Glynne’s Hold My Hand, will offer flights to multiple sunny destinations next spring and summer. The airline’s Chief Executive, Steve Heapy, expressed excitement about the announcement, emphasizing the opportunity to accelerate growth from London Gatwick, the UK’s largest leisure destination airport.
Gatwick will become Jet2’s 14th UK airport base, with initial flights to 29 sunshine destinations in countries like Spain, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, and Italy. The airline plans to create over 300 direct job positions in Gatwick, including roles for pilots, cabin crew, engineering, and ground operations, with additional indirect jobs to be generated as well.
Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Gatwick’s Chief Executive, welcomed Jet2 to the airport, highlighting the increased choice and flexibility for passengers in the South East and beyond. He mentioned the recent government approval for routine use of Gatwick’s northern runway, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the region.
Jet2, a top-rated UK airline, has received accolades such as Best Airline at the Routes Europe Awards and The Telegraph Travel Awards for Best Short-Haul Airline. The airline was recognized as the Most Reliable UK Airline by AirAdvisor and has been a Which? Recommended Provider for ten years due to its exceptional service and very low cancellation rates.
