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Gatwick Airport is rapidly transforming into a pivotal global hub for affordable travel, driven by a surge of investment and the arrival of major low-cost carriers. The airport’s strategic expansion, including the recent government approval to bring its Northern Runway into routine use, is rapidly boosting capacity, attracting significant new entrants like Jet2. Launching its largest new base this century with six aircraft and an initial 29 routes, Jet2 joins established budget players like easyJet, Wizz Air, and long-haul low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic. This fierce competition, coupled with Gatwick's excellent road and rail connectivity to the capital and the South East, is translating directly into more competitive fares and an unparalleled range of destinations across Europe and beyond, cementing Gatwick as a flexible, high-value travel gateway for millions of Londoners and holidaymakers.
A major airline is expanding its flight schedule, giving travellers more choice when flying to one of Europe’s most popular destinations. Air France has announced it will introduce a new route connecting Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport with London Gatwick from next year.
Until now, the airline has operated flights only to and from London Heathrow. However, from March 29, 2026, passengers in the UK will also be able to fly with Air France via Gatwick.
The airline confirmed that two daily flights will run from Gatwick, improving onward connections through Paris Charles de Gaulle to Air France’s global network, according to the Express.
Air France currently flies to 29 destinations within France and over 200 worldwide, making it one of Europe’s leading airlines. At present, it operates up to 300 flights each week to six airports across the UK.
The new Gatwick service is part of Air France’s wider plan to strengthen its medium-haul network and increase flight frequencies between Britain and France.
In addition, the airline will introduce special flights between Paris Charles de Gaulle and Cardiff in February 2026 to coincide with the Six Nations rugby tournament. From February 13 to 16, Air France will operate 12 flights on this route to help French and international fans travel to Wales for the event.
Air France is also upgrading its services at Heathrow, where it currently runs seven daily flights. In spring 2026, the airline will open a new lounge at Heathrow Terminal 4. The 750-square-metre lounge, seating around 150 guests, will be available to La Première, Business Class and Flying Blue Elite Plus customers, as well as eligible KLM and SkyTeam passengers.
The lounge will feature dining areas offering French cuisine, a bar serving French wines and champagnes, spa and relaxation facilities, and dedicated workspaces. The airline says the space is designed to offer a calm and elegant environment before departure or during connections.
