Jet2 to Launch Flights from Gatwick in 2025 as Expansion Accelerates

Jet2 is preparing to commence flights from London Gatwick in March 2025, marking a significant development for the UK’s largest package holiday provider and the country’s third largest airline by passenger numbers. The company has secured slots for six aircraft at Gatwick following the release of additional capacity at the airport, with five Airbus A321neo planes to be based at Gatwick and a sixth overseas.

The airline will initially operate flights to 29 destinations across Spain, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, and Italy. The first departure is scheduled for 26 March to Tenerife. Steve Heapy, Jet2’s chief executive, described the move as a once in a generation opportunity to accelerate growth from the UK’s second largest airport, positioning Jet2 to reach a much broader customer base. This development comes as 85 percent of the UK population is now within a 90 minute drive of a Jet2 base, following its recent expansion to London Luton and Bournemouth.

Gatwick will be Jet2’s fourteenth UK base and is expected to create more than 300 direct jobs in the region, including pilots and cabin crew. Hundreds of indirect roles will also be generated. The company forecasts that its Gatwick operation will become profitable by 2029, despite analysts predicting that start up and aircraft leasing costs could put pressure on short term forecasts over the next two to three years. The move is set to increase competition for established players such as easyJet and Tui in the package holiday sector.

Founded in 1983 by former RAF pilot Philip Meeson, Jet2 has grown from a provincial cargo carrier into a leading force in British aviation. While rival companies like Thomas Cook and Monarch have failed, Jet2 has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The company now holds the highest market value among companies trading on London’s junior stock market, with a capitalisation of approximately £2.6 billion. Recently, Jet2 shares closed up 2 percent at £13.42.

Analysts note the long term growth potential arising from Jet2’s Gatwick expansion and anticipate a reshaping of the UK’s package holiday market as a result of the new competitive dynamic.