Jet2, a prominent UK airline, recently announced its expansion into London Gatwick, adding it as the 14th airport in its network. This move marks a significant milestone for the airline as it prepares to commence operations from March 26, 2026, right before the Easter holidays.
Expansion of Jet2 Operations
The first flight from London Gatwick will head to Tenerife. Jet2 aims to provide a diverse range of destinations, including:
- Mainland Spain
- The Canary Islands
- The Balearic Islands
- Greece
- Turkey
- Portugal
- Malta
- Italy
- Croatia
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
Investment in Sustainable Aircraft
To facilitate this expansion, Jet2 will deploy a fleet of six new Airbus A321neo aircraft. These aircraft are recognized for their sustainability, showcasing:
- Over 20% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per seat
- 50% lower noise footprint compared to similar aircraft
Job Creation and Economic Impact
This expansion is expected to create more than 300 direct jobs in various roles, including:
- Flight deck professionals
- Crew members
- Engineering staff
- Ground operations personnel
Jet2’s entry into London Gatwick is anticipated to also generate hundreds of indirect job opportunities, positively impacting the local economy.
Statements from Leadership
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2, expressed enthusiasm about this significant development. He noted, “This represents an incredibly exciting moment for Jet2. We aim to provide our award-winning flights and holidays from London Gatwick.” He added that this expansion aligns with their ambition to meet the growing demand from customers and travel agents.
Pierre-Hugues, Chief Executive of London Gatwick, welcomed Jet2’s arrival, highlighting its importance for passenger choice and flexibility within the South East. He remarked, “Jet2 brings even more options to our passengers, supporting Gatwick’s vision as the airport for everyone.”
This new chapter for Jet2 is set to enhance options for travelers while contributing significantly to the regional economy and sustainable transport initiatives.
