London Gatwick was ‘the missing piece of the jigsaw’ for Jet2 as airline launches arrival at airport

Jet2 announced it fully to 29 destinations from Gatwick from March 2026 and Mr Heapy said it was a ‘momentous day’ for both parties at the official launch, held at the Hilton Hotel, South Terminal.

This marks the largest new based airline at London Gatwick this century, as the UK’s leading tour operator expands to meet soaring demand from passengers and independent travel agents.

So why Gatwick? “It was a missing piece of the jigsaw puzzle,” said Mr Heapy. “We've got 13 other bases spread very much throughout the UK and Gatwick is the one base we've wanted to do for a long time. The opportunity came up and we grabbed it. The other reason is our customers have been asking for many years.

“We have been doing winter flying for two or three years charter and our customers have been saying, ‘well, why can't you fly all year round?’ and that's what we will be doing from next year.”

Jet2’s arrival brings a major boost to the region, creating more than 300 direct jobs across flight deck, cabin crew, engineering and ground operations, plus hundreds more through the wider supply chain.

Mr Heapy said: “It will be a real boost to the economy. There is a real mixture of jobs, some of them are professional technical jobs and some aren’t so there is plenty of types of jobs for different and it will be a boost for the economy because it will support indirect jobs as well.

“With the 300 jobs, the impact on indirect jobs and the money people will be spending in the airport and on holidays, it will bring in a significant amount. It’s great news.”

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive, 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. We are committed to delivering exceptional service and we look forward to supporting Jet2’s growth and success here at London Gatwick.”

In a demonstration of its commitment to London Gatwick, Jet2 has put a significant programme on sale for its first summer of operations, with 29 sunshine destinations available. The first flight from London Gatwick will take off for Tenerife on 26 March 2026, perfectly timed for the Easter holidays.

Jonathan Pollard, chief commercial officer at London Gatwick said it was ‘tremendous excitement’ for the airport to have Jet2 on board.

“Airpoirt launches are always exciting but the scale of the launch Jet2 have announced today is enormous news and it’s one big celebration for us here.”