Major UK airport launches 12 new routes to popular destinations with eight new airlines

A MAJOR UK airport has launched new flight routes to 12 different destinations.

The planned expansion will see eight different airlines join the fleet.

London Gatwick airport is set to broaden its network ahead of summer this year.

The plans to include flights to 12 new locations will see the airport serve more than 230 destinations across Europe, North America, the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Jet2, among seven other new airlines, will be serving Gatwick airport, bringing the total up to 62.

The popular holiday company will operate 29 routes throughout the summer holiday season, including destinations in Spain, Turkiye, Portugal, and Malta.

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This will create more than 300 jobs in the airport’s region with employees needed for the flight deck, cabin crew, engineering and ground operations.

Plus, hundreds more will be required through the wider supply chain.

The airport’s expansion will also see many existing airlines expanding their services too.

Royal Air Maroc will begin flights to Tetouan, Morocco, twice weekly from March 29, with Norwegian launching a new route to Aalborg, Denmark, starting April 2.

From May 15, Air Transat will introduce a service to Ottawa, Canada, and SWISS will increase its Zurich route to twice daily from March 29.

Speaking to The Brighton Argus, Pierre-Hugues Schmit, chief executive of London Gatwick, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Jet2 to London Gatwick, marking an exciting new chapter for the airport and our passengers. 

“Jet2’s arrival brings even more choice and flexibility to passengers across the South East and beyond, strengthening London Gatwick’s vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.

“It is an exciting time for Jet2 to join London Gatwick following the recent government approval for routine use of our Northern Runway, which will further expand connectivity and economic growth.”