Jet2 to Establish Base at London Gatwick
UK budget carrier Jet2 is setting up a base at London Gatwick Airport, planning to station six aircraft there and launch nearly 30 leisure routes starting summer next year. The airline’s first service from Gatwick will begin on 26 March, flying to Tenerife in the Canary Islands.
Focus on Mediterranean Leisure Destinations
Jet2’s network from Gatwick will primarily serve popular Mediterranean holiday spots. The announced destinations include locations across Spain, the Balearic Islands, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Croatia, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and the Canary Islands.
Fleet and Operations
The Gatwick base will operate six aircraft, five of which will be Airbus A321neos.
Airport Context and Competitors
Jet2 will become the 14th airline to establish a base at Gatwick. The airport’s largest operator is EasyJet, which accounted for 44% of passenger traffic last year. Central European low-cost carrier Wizz Air also maintains a base at Gatwick.
Economic Impact
Jet2 describes the new base as “a significant investment for the region,” which will create 300 direct jobs.
Author’s summary: Jet2 is expanding its presence at London Gatwick with a new base, adding nearly 30 leisure routes and supporting 300 jobs, solidifying its position in the competitive budget travel market.