easyJet to improve Scotland's connectivity with new routes and aircraft

Brits planning to fly from Scottish airports next year can expect a wider selection of destinations to choose from.

Having launched their first services flying between Glasgow and London Luton just over 20 years ago, easyJet has announced that from summer next year they will be increasing the number of aircraft based in Edinburgh.

36 routes from Edinburgh

In response to passenger demand, the extra aircraft will allow the airline to extend the number of routes and destinations that it currently operates from Edinburgh.

In the year to September 2015, 5.5 million people chose to fly with easyJet between Europe and Scotland. With eight aircraft based in Edinburgh operating on 36 routes from summer 2016, the airline expects this to increase by 10% in the following 12 months.

A boost to the economy

The announcement means that Brits can expect to enjoy more than just a wider choice of flights. Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, explained that it will also be a huge boost to the local economy. “Improving Scotland’s connectivity is one of this Government’s top priorities, as it will help build strong business links and provide a real boost to our tourism industry,” she said.

“easyJet’s latest announcement of new routes and new aircraft for Edinburgh, along with the new direct jobs this will create, is evidence of their continued investment in our airports and I remain keen to support their aspirations to expand in Scotland” she added.

Scottish growth

In Scotland the low-cost carrier already has 435 employees, including 159 in Glasgow.  However, the eighth aircraft at Edinburgh means that easyJet anticipates increasing the 276 employees based in the city to 300.

easyJet's capacity in Scotland has increased by 20% since 2011; operating an unparalleled 62 routes from Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow airports across Europe.

“Just over twenty years ago we launched the airline with services between London Luton and Glasgow" said Chief Executive of easyJet, Carolyn McCall.

“Twenty years on Scotland remains an important part of our strategy and we continue to see an opportunity for growth in Scotland.”

If you're thinking of taking a European getaway, don't forget your short haul travel insurance in advance.

Date Created: 30/11/2015