Jet2.com and Jet2holidays Touch Down at London Gatwick: Airline’s 14th UK Base Officially Opens

Holiday giant Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have officially marked a new era of travel for passengers in the South East, following the successful launch of operations from their brand-new base at London Gatwick (LGW) last Thursday, 26th March 2026.

The inaugural flight, which departed to a fanfare at the airport, signifies Gatwick becoming the 14th UK base for the award-winning airline and tour operator. The move represents a massive multi-million-pound investment in the region, bringing more competition and choice for sun-seekers and city-breakers alike.

A Summer of Sun from the South

For the Summer 2026 season, Jet2 has hit the ground running with an extensive schedule. The airline is basing a fleet of brand-new, fuel-efficient aircraft at Gatwick to serve a variety of popular Mediterranean and European destinations.

Key highlights of the Gatwick launch include:

Initial Destinations: Flights are now operating to hotspots including Majorca, Faro, Alicante, Tenerife, and Antalya.
Job Creation: The new base has created hundreds of local jobs, ranging from flight deck and cabin crew to ground operations and “Red Team” customer service roles.
Flight Frequency: Many routes will see daily or multiple-weekly departures, catering to the high demand for flexible holiday durations.

Why Gatwick?

While Jet2 has long been a powerhouse in the North and Midlands, the expansion into Gatwick allows them to tap into the vast London and South East market more directly. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, stated that the opening was a “major milestone” in the company’s history, citing the strong demand from travel agents and customers in the area for their “VIP Customer Service.”

The airline’s arrival at Gatwick is expected to be a major win for travellers who value:

Included Essentials: Jet2’s famous 22kg baggage allowance and 10kg hand luggage.
Package Security: The peace of mind that comes with ATOL-protected holidays.
Award-Winning Service: Consistently high rankings in customer satisfaction surveys.

The Growing Jet2 Network

The opening of the Gatwick base comes just a year after the successful launch of their Liverpool base in 2024, showing no signs of slowing down. As Terminal North at Gatwick prepares for a record-breaking summer season, the sight of the signature silver and red Jet2 aircraft is set to become a permanent fixture on the Sussex runway.

Whether you are looking for a quick getaway or a long family holiday, the addition of Jet2 to Gatwick’s roster provides a fresh alternative for those who prefer a “Customer First” approach to flying.

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