JET2 Holidays. Photo: London Gatwick Airport Jet2 has officially launched operations from London Gatwick Airport, marking a major step in the company’s continued growth.
The airline’s inaugural flight took off on March 26, bound for Tenerife, perfectly timed for the Easter holiday getaway. It was followed by a flight to Alicante, kicking off a busy first day at the UK’s second-largest airport.
Passengers were welcomed with Jet2’s signature customer experience, including a red-carpet check-in, gifts, and even a surprise appearance from TV personality Zoe Lister. Some travellers received free flight vouchers, while one lucky customer was awarded a seven-night holiday to Mallorca by CEO Steve Heapy during the flight.
The move comes after years of demand for Jet2 to expand into the London and South East market. With this launch, the airline has now reached a total of 14 UK airport bases.
This summer, Jet2 will serve 29 destinations from Gatwick, including hotspots across Spain, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, Malta, Italy, and Cyprus. The airline will base six aircraft at the airport, including five new Airbus A321neo jets, known for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Looking ahead, Jet2 has already put an extensive winter schedule on sale, featuring 23 destinations, from winter sun escapes to ski trips and Christmas market breaks. Plans are also in place for Summer 2027, with 34 destinations and a 27% increase in capacity, including a new route to Lesvos in Greece.
The expansion is also expected to boost the local economy, with more than 300 jobs created across flight operations, engineering and ground services.
Jet2’s CEO Steve Heapy described the launch as a “major milestone”: "After years of demand to come to London Gatwick, we are delighted to be bringing our award-winning service, recognised 11 years in a row by Which? as its recommended travel provider, to the UK’s largest beach and city leisure destination airport. Seeing our first flight take off from our 14th UK airport base, is an important milestone which we shared with our customers in a huge celebration with a familiar voice too, Zoe Lister.”
Gatwick CEO Pierre-Hugues Schmit welcomed the airline’s arrival, noting the added choice and connectivity for passengers.
With strong bookings already reported, Jet2’s newest base looks set to become a key part of its growing network.