Jet2 has reached a significant growth milestone at London Stansted Airport, marking 15 million passengers carried since launching operations at the airport in 2017, while simultaneously announcing a new leisure route to southern Spain that underscores its long-term commitment to the UK market and sun-focused travel demand.
The Leeds-based airline confirmed it will introduce direct flights from London Stansted Airport (STN) to Almería Airport (LEI) beginning in May 2027. The service will connect travelers to Spain’s Costa de Almería region, a destination known for its Mediterranean coastline, established resorts, and year-round appeal among UK holidaymakers.
The route announcement coincides with Jet2’s passenger milestone at Stansted, where the airline has steadily expanded its footprint over the past eight years. Jet2’s first Stansted flight departed in March 2017, operating to Faro Airport in Portugal. Since then, the airline has grown into one of the airport’s largest carriers, reflecting sustained leisure travel demand and a deliberate expansion strategy.
Strengthening Jet2’s Southern Spain Network
The addition of Costa de Almería further broadens Jet2’s southern Spain offering and reinforces its focus on sun-led leisure destinations. The region has long attracted British travelers seeking warm weather, coastal scenery, and resort-based holidays, making it a natural fit within Jet2’s expanding Spanish portfolio.
The new route also highlights the airline’s long-term planning at London Stansted. Consistent passenger demand has supported Jet2’s steady network growth not only across Spain, but also throughout mainland Europe and popular island markets. By committing to a launch date as far ahead as 2027, Jet2 is signaling confidence in both the destination and the Stansted catchment area.
Network Growth Since 2017
From a single route in 2017, Jet2 has expanded its Stansted flying program to a total of 61 destinations spanning sun, city, and ski markets. This growth has been driven by strong customer demand, increased operational capacity, and a strategy centered on leisure-focused routes that complement the airline’s Jet2holidays offering.
Looking ahead, Jet2 has placed 2.4 million seats on sale from London Stansted for the Summer 2026 season. The airline is also set to launch new services to Jerez Airport in Spain, Samos International Airport in Greece, and La Palma Airport in the Canary Islands, all of which will be served from Stansted for the first time.
These additions reflect Jet2’s continued effort to diversify its network while maintaining a core emphasis on high-demand holiday destinations.
Fleet Deployment and Market Position
Jet2’s expansion at Stansted is also evident in its fleet deployment. Based on Winter 2025/2026 capacity, the airline currently ranks as the second-largest carrier at the airport. It now bases 17 aircraft at London Stansted, a significant increase from the six aircraft stationed there when operations first began.
This growth in based aircraft supports a broader route portfolio and allows Jet2 to operate across both peak summer and winter travel seasons. The expanded fleet presence further demonstrates the airline’s confidence in the Stansted market and its ability to sustain long-term growth.
Employment Growth and Investment
Alongside network and fleet expansion, Jet2 has made substantial investments in employment at London Stansted. The airline launched operations with approximately 250 roles and now employs nearly 1,200 staff members at the airport.
This increase reflects continued investment in people, infrastructure, and long-term operations, contributing to the local economy while supporting Jet2’s expanding schedule and service offerings.
Steve Heapy, Chief Executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, described the 15 million passenger figure as an important milestone, crediting customer loyalty, colleague support, and the airline’s award-winning flights and holidays for driving sustained success. He also stated that the airline is focused on carrying many more customers on future holidays from Stansted.
Ciaran Brannigan, Commercial Director at London Stansted Airport, said the milestone represents a significant success for both Jet2 and the airport. He highlighted Jet2’s role in expanding passenger choice, creating hundreds of jobs, and investing heavily in the region, adding that the airport looks forward to supporting the airline’s continued expansion.
With new routes planned, capacity rising, and a growing workforce, Jet2’s latest announcement underscores its position as a key player in the UK leisure aviation market and a major contributor to London Stansted’s ongoing growth.
