Low-cost airline easyJet is to introduce direct flights from Bristol Airport to Gibraltar next year, taking the number of destinations it serves from the airport to 47.
When it launches next April it will be the first time the airport has had a direct service to the British Mediterranean territory.
EasyJet, Bristol Airport’s largest airline, expects the route to be popular with business people and tourists – as well as being a popular holiday destination, Gibraltar is also a financial services centre with strong links to the West of England’s banking and insurance industries.
The year-round service will operate up to three times a week with the inaugural flight from Bristol on April 19. Tickets will go on sale on easyJet’s website this Thursday.
The flight time, at just over two-and-a-half hours, will be the shortest between any UK city and Gibraltar. EasyJet already operates the route from London Gatwick, which takes just over three hours, while British Airways has a direct, full-cost service from Heathrow taking just under three hours.
The new route was announced by easyJet, Gibraltar tourism chiefs and Bristol Airport bosses today at World Travel Market, the UK’s leading travel exhibition.
EasyJet UK commercial manager Ali Gayward said: “We’re really pleased to be introducing Bristol’s only direct air link to Gibraltar Airport.
“We’re confident that it will prove a popular service for both business and leisure travellers. We will have more than 19,000 seats available on the new service next summer alone.”
Bristol Airport aviation director Shaun Browne added: “Bristol Airport is delighted to play its part in extending the air links between the UK and Gibraltar. Plymouth has a strong connection to Gibraltar through its rich naval and marine industry history and, more recently, the financial services sector plays an important role in both our economies.
“This new flight will provide easy access and improve connections for both business and leisure passengers. We are pleased that Bristol Airport can contribute to the strengthening of ties between Gibraltar and the UK.”
Pictured announcing the new route, from the left: Shaun Browne, Bristol Airport; Ali Gayward, easyJet; The Hon Neil F Costa MP – Minister of Tourism, Gibraltar and Nicky Guerrero, CEO Gibraltar tourist board
