Scotland-based travellers will soon be able to fly directly to Gibraltar for the first time, with the launch of a new EasyJet service from Edinburgh.
The flights are due to start on 4 May, and to be operated weekly. This first direct connection between Gibraltar and Scotland will be EasyJet’s fifth route to the British overseas territory, joining current services to London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester and Bristol.
The news follows an announcement earlier this month that Eastern Airways planned to launch twice-weekly services to Gibraltar in May, operating from Birmingham and Southampton.
Last December, Wizz Air inaugurated twice-weekly flights from Luton Airport, meaning Gibraltar’s international airport (also a key gateway to southern Spain) will be serviced by six airline companies – covering UK and Moroccan routes and a helicopter service to Málaga.
The Edinburgh route was due to commence in March last year but was postponed due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. The aim remains unchanged, however: to “provide business and leisure travellers alike with a direct and easy route between two popular destinations both known for their famous festivals, iconic castles and rich heritage”. The Edinburg service is expected to carry over 27,500 customers in its first year – and seats are now on sale from £15.99.
When initially announcing plans for the route, minister for business, tourism and transport Vijay Daryanani said, “I’m delighted that EasyJet are once again putting their faith in Gibraltar by launching their fifth destination to the Rock. This is the first route from Scotland to Gibraltar and it opens up great leisure and business opportunities all round.
“I must commend all those who have been involved in the efforts to make this service a reality. This is in line with the policy of the Government to create more connectivity between Gibraltar and other airports.”
Reporting on its updated plans this month, EasyJet noted, “While people may not be able to travel right now, we know there is pent up demand which we see every time restrictions are eased. We remain optimistic that summer flying this year will be possible as the vaccination continues to progress well, and hope to see there will be a road map from the Scottish and UK governments for travel restrictions to be safely and progressively rolled back, which enables people to plan for the future.”
Added Easyjet UK country manager Ali Gayward, “We know that people want to travel as soon as they can and as soon as it is safe to do so and so we want to ensure they have even more destinations to choose from when making a booking for this summer.
“Our protection promise means that customers can book with confidence knowing that, if they are unable to travel or their plans change, so can their flights or holiday. Unlike other airlines, we will offer customers refunds if they are impacted by a travel ban, even if their flight is not cancelled.
“We will be ready to ramp up our flights so we can take our customers away to see friends and family or on long-awaited holiday breaks when they can safely take to the skies again.”