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Routes unveiled for new BA short-haul unit
British Airways has revealed the first destinations for its new Gatwick subsidiary, which will start flying from March 2022.
Tickets to 35 short-haul destinations are now on sale.
The airline announced its intention to create a short-haul standalone business at Gatwick in August, similar to its operation from London City Airport, which operates under the British Airways name but exists as an entirely separate entity.
The BA Euroflyer offshoot will launch later in 2022, with short-haul services at Gatwick being operated by mainline BA until the new entity’s’ Air Operators Certificate is issued.
BA short-haul flights will start operating from Gatwick at the end of March, with three Airbus short-haul aircraft initially, ramping up to 18 aircraft by the end of May.
It will fly to Faro, Ibiza, Malaga, Marrakech and Tenerife, which are also served from Heathrow.
Other new routes will be added at Gatwick including Athens, Berlin, Madrid, Milan Malpensa and Santorini.
The new services will be branded and known as British Airways*.
Customers will receive the same level of service they expect of British Airways as well as a generous baggage allowance, free water and snacks, free seat selection at -24 hours and frequent flyer benefits which include lounge access.
Tickets start from £39 each way with fares competitive with those of Gatwick no-frills carriers.
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said: "Today is a landmark moment for British Airways. The creation of a new British Airways short-haul organisation means Gatwick customers will benefit from access to a premium service from the UK’s flag carrier at competitive prices. We are looking forward to bringing a short-haul network back to Gatwick."
The airline has already launched a recruitment campaign to invite people interested in roles to help the company launch the new subsidiary..
Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport, said: "This significant news will be very welcome for many people connected to the airport. Despite the ongoing public health situation, today’s announcement is a positive signal that consumer confidence is returning."
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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