easyJet, Bristol’s largest airline, is getting ready for a big weekend with flights to five new destinations taking-off from Bristol Airport.
This Saturday will see easyJet’s first flight from Bristol to Lanzarote take to the skies followed by the inaugural flights for Porto (one of Bristol’s twin cities), Gibraltar, Bilbao and Isle of Man on Sunday.
More than 185,000 passengers are expected to fly on the five new routes in the first year alone and the airline will add a twelfth aircraft to its Bristol operations this summer to accommodate the extra demand.
Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Commercial Manager, said: “We’re delighted to have five of our exciting new routes departing for the first time this weekend. Whether customers are looking for a beach break, cultural getaway or active adventure, we have a new route to suit all.
“We’re committed to serving the South West and have grown significantly since first starting our operations at Bristol Airport just under 13 years ago. Bristol Airport is now our largest operation in the UK outside of London, and we fly directly to an incredible 53 destinations across Europe and beyond. It also means we’re able to promote inbound tourism for the city of Bristol and surrounding area. We’re looking forward to more firsts next month with our inaugural Zante and Catania flights.”
Shaun Browne, Aviation Director Bristol Airport, said: “We are delighted to welcome these exciting new destinations from Bristol Airport. The new routes will require an additional Airbus aircraft to be based at Bristol Airport from this summer, bringing the total number of easyJet aircraft to 12. Not only will the new destinations provide an improved route network for passengers, the continued growth will bring extra job opportunities and economic benefits to the region.
“The routes will also provide increased inbound tourism opportunities for visitors wishing to visit the West of England and the large variety of tourist attractions and events the region has to offer.”
Ashley Fox, MEP for the South West of England & Gibraltar, commenting on the new Gibraltar links, said: ""Gibraltar has always been a bastion of British culture and the gateway to the Mediterranean. For centuries it has had strong links with the South West of England built on the foundation of mutual defence and respect and the sharing of the Royal Navy. These bonds can only be strengthened by this direct transport link between the two parts of the region I represent. I would encourage everyone in the South West to visit Gibraltar and enjoy the sun, sea, sand and friendly atmosphere of The Rock and I hope that many Gibraltarians will travel to the South West and enjoy our famous hospitality as well.”
easyJet’s new routes are on sale at www.easyjet.com. They join a host of other easyJet routes from Bristol Airport including Faro, Paris, Geneva and Glasgow. More information on the new routes can be found below:
*Fares one-way per person, based on two people travelling on the same booking
About Lanzarote
Part of the Canary Islands just off the coast of Africa, Lanzarote attracts tourists year-round from all over the world. Its beautiful golden beaches, volcanic backdrop, world class golf resorts and lively nightlife make it a haven for holidaymakers looking for a relaxing break in the sun.
About Porto
Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, has a unique quirky mix of styles that gives it an electric atmosphere and pulse. Wander through the streets, take in the architectural magnificence of its buildings and relax in the numerous outdoor cafes whilst watching the city’s character come to life. River cruises down the River Douro are also a popular way to take in the sights, and tourists can sample the finest Portuguese wines on the renowned cellar tours.
About Gibraltar
Gibraltar, famous for its rocky landscape, is ideal for those looking to escape to sunnier climates. Travellers can take advantage of Gibraltar’s breath taking views from the top of the rock, vast history and wealth of shopping, as well as giving tourists an opportunity to explore the deep caves and caverns of the country.
About Bilbao
Bilbao is one of Spain’s gems filled with plenty of cultural things to see including its famous architecture, museums and art galleries. It is also celebrated for its culinary delights, hosting sumptuous seafood and tapas dishes. Bilbao provides the perfect setting for those wanting to wander and explore the old streets, taking in the charming surroundings of the city.
About Isle of Man
A small and beautiful island in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a captivating place full of old British character and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break, an action-packed adventure in the great outdoors or a romantic getaway, the Isle of Man has it all. Complete with an abundance of unspoilt hills, valleys and spectacular coastline, the island provides a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
ENDS
For further information, please contact the easyJet Press Office on +44 (0)1582 525252, email press.office@easyjet.com or follow @easyJet_Press
Picture from left to right: Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Commercial Manager, Ashley Fox MEP for the South West of England & Gibraltar and Shaun Browne Aviation Director at Bristol Airport
About easyJet:
easyJet is Europe’s leading airline offering a unique and winning combination of the best route network connecting Europe's primary airports, with great value fares and friendly service.
easyJet flies on more of Europe’s most popular routes than any other airline. easyJet carries over 65 million passengers annually, of which more than 12 million are travelling on business. easyJet flies over 220 aircraft on more than 700 routes to over 130 airports across 32 countries. More than 300 million Europeans live within one hour's drive of an easyJet airport.
easyJet aims to be a good corporate citizen, employing people on local contracts in seven countries across Europe in full compliance with national laws and recognising their trade unions. The airline supports a number of local charities and also has a corporate partnership with UNICEF which has raised over £4m for the most vulnerable children since it was established in 2012.
The airline takes sustainability seriously. easyJet invests in the latest technology, operates efficiently and fills most of its seats which means that an easyJet passenger's carbon footprint is 22% less than a passenger on a traditional airline, flying the same aircraft on the same route.
Innovation is in easyJet’s DNA – from our launch almost 20 years ago when we changed the way people fly to the present day where we lead the industry in digital, web, engineering and operational innovations to make travel more easy and affordable for our passengers.
