EasyJet has announced significant expansion of its summer services from Southend Airport. This move aims to accommodate increasing demand for flights to Paris and Palma.
Starting from the summer peak, EasyJet will add thousands of additional seats to these popular destinations, offering more travel options to passengers.
EasyJet will introduce an extra Sunday service to Paris Charles de Gaulle from July to August, supplementing its existing summer flights on Mondays and Fridays. Additionally, a new Thursday flight will be added to Palma, running from June 27 to October 24. This brings the total to eight flights per week to Majorca during the summer period.
The announcement follows Southend Airport’s change of ownership, with US private equity group Carlyle set to take control. Carlyle, alongside Cyrus Capital Partners, is investing £32 million to secure the airport’s future growth. This investment is aimed at enhancing the airport’s capacity and operational efficiency.
John Upton, the airport’s chief executive, remarked that the new investment would significantly benefit the airport. “This increase not only enhances connectivity but also provides travellers with more convenient options to explore these two vibrant destinations,” he stated. He added that Southend Airport is ideally placed to serve airlines looking to expand their operations in London.
Carlyle and Cyrus Capital have extensive experience in the aviation sector, which will be pivotal in driving Southend Airport’s growth. In a joint statement, they expressed excitement about partnering with the airport’s management team to enhance its capabilities and services.
“Our dedicated on-site rail station is less than one hour from central London; only 43 minutes from Stratford, London with connections to the Elizabeth Line; and only 100 paces from the terminal door,” Upton pointed out.
Upton echoed these sentiments, reiterating that the demand from East London, Essex, and the broader East Anglia region remains robust.
Southend Airport’s expansion is a significant step in supporting regional development. The increase in flight options contributes to the local economy by attracting more travellers and business opportunities to the area.
EasyJet’s summer capacity expansion from Southend Airport marks a crucial step in enhancing regional connectivity and meeting growing travel demands.
With substantial investment and strategic planning, this development promises to offer a better travel experience for passengers while supporting the airport’s long-term growth.
