EasyJet opens new base at regional UK airport – flying to 20 destinations this summer including Portugal, Spain & Italy

EASYJET has opened a new base at Southend Airport flying to 20 different holiday hotspots.

The airport will run 122 flights per week, more than twice as many as last year, to leisure destinations across Europe and north Africa.

The airline said basing three A320neo aircraft at the Essex airport will support a total of around 1,200 jobs.

It will serve flights to the following destinations: Alicante, Palma, Malaga, Paris (CDG), Amsterdam, Faro, Geneva, Gran Canaria, Malta, Pisa, Dalman, Enfidha, Almeria, Reus, Antalya, Tenerife, Marrakech, Barcelona, Salzburg and Lanzarote.

Flights to Barcelona will operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays from October 26.

Meanwhile, flights to Lanzarote will operate three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from October 27.

The new Salzburg service will operate twice weekly on Saturdays throughout the winter, from December 6.

EasyJet stopped operating flights at Southend airport in September 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

It resumed operations in May 2022, but didn't base any planes there until today.

CHEAPEST FLIGHTS

Holidaymakers could travel from Southend to Faro in Portugal for as little as £14.99.

At present, flights are cheapest in April, May and June, dipping once again in September.

The Algarve is known for its Atlantic beaches and golf resorts.

It's a year-round destination, however, easyJet recommends visiting in March and April if looking to hike in cooler temperatures.

Meanwhile, flights to Malaga start at just £19.99.

The cheapest month at present is September, but easyJet claims the best time to visit is in June, July and August.

PACKAGE DEALS

There are over 2,164 holidays to be had with easyJet, starting from Southend Airport.

If you book via easyJet's website you can get your flights and hotel in one easy package.

Plus, a 23kg bag and transfers are included with beach breaks.

For example, a seven night stay for two people at the Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort, plus flights, costs just £397 per person.

This resort in Tunisia boasts a beachfront location plus three outdoor pools.

It offers a variety of restaurants, including a buffet and two a la carte options.

This North African country is known for its ancient architecture, souks and blue coasts.

Meanwhile, a week's stay at the Playa De La Arena, Sholeo Lodges los Gigantes in Tenerife for two, costs just £383 per person.

This resort boasts sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and La Gomera Island.

It's situated just 0.7km from the beach and places an emphasis on sustainability.

Tenerife is the largest of Spain‘s Canary Islands off West Africa with sands ranging in colour from yellow to black.

It's also known for its Carnival de Santa Cruz, a large pre-lent festival with parades, music and dancing.