Jet2 Holidays 2026
Jet2 Holidays 2026: Where they’re flying, what’s new and what it means for your next break
Jet2 has spent the past year remapping its place in the UK’s leisure travel market. The upcoming 2026 season is shaping up to be one of its most ambitious yet, marked by the arrival of a new London Gatwick base, additional flights, and fresh destinations across Europe and beyond. It’s a year defined not by small adjustments but by deliberate expansion — and the effects will be felt by anyone planning a summer or winter escape with Jet2 Holidays 2026.
Below is a ground-level look at what Jet2 Holidays 2026 is introducing, what these changes actually mean for holidaymakers, and the details that matter when choosing your next break.
The headline: Jet2’s biggest summer schedule so far
Jet2 signalled early that Jet2 Holidays 2026 would be its most extensive summer programme to date. More seats, more frequencies, and more destinations have been added across its network. For travellers, this is more than a marketing line — larger schedules usually result in better availability during school holidays, more competitive opening prices, and increased choice for families and couples trying to lock in the best dates.
The company’s summer destinations span the classic favourites — Spain, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Portugal, and the Canary Islands — but the noteworthy story is the depth of the programme rather than the number of countries. Many airports are receiving increased frequencies to high-demand resorts, easing pressure during peak weeks.
A major milestone: Jet2 opens a base at London Gatwick
One of the most significant moves for 2026 is Jet2’s decision to open a full base at London Gatwick, marking a strategic expansion into one of the country’s busiest leisure airports. This is a central part of Jet2 Holidays 2026’s push to provide more flexibility for UK travellers.
The Gatwick programme launches with dozens of sun routes and multiple aircraft stationed onsite, including the airline’s incoming Airbus A321neo fleet. For southern England travellers, this is a meaningful shift. Until now, Jet2’s presence in the region was limited — Gatwick gives the company a firm foothold in the highly competitive London market.
What it means for holidaymakers:
- Southern travellers, particularly those south of the Thames, get easier access to Jet2 Holidays 2026’s full holiday programme.
- A new base tends to bring introductory pricing, especially during the first few months of sales.
- Expect strong availability for summer 2026 from day one.
New and expanded routes for 2026
While Jet2 is already strong across the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, Jet2 Holidays 2026 brings a fresh wave of destinations and airport-specific additions that broaden what’s available.
La Palma, Canary Islands
La Palma joins the network as a quieter, nature‑heavy alternative to Tenerife or Gran Canaria. The island appeals to travellers who want dramatic volcanic scenery, hiking routes, and observatories rather than party resorts. Its addition reflects growing demand for off-mainstream islands, a key feature of Jet2 Holidays 2026.
La Palma is a paradise for nature lovers and those after a more peaceful, scenic escape. Dense laurel forests, volcanic ridgelines, deep ravines, and some of Europe’s clearest night skies make it one of the top spots for stargazing. Outside peak summer, the weather remains mild and pleasant, and many hotels and rural guesthouses cater to walkers and quiet holidaymakers rather than mass‑market beach crowds.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Santa Cruz de La Palma and enjoy local cuisine.
- Day 2: Hike in Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
- Day 3: Visit Roque de los Muchachos Observatory for panoramic views.
- Day 4: Relax at Puerto Naos or Tazacorte beaches.
- Day 5: Explore artisan villages like El Paso or Los Llanos and sample local wines.
Best time to visit: April–June or September–October.
Chania (Crete), Greece
Chania combines Venetian harbour charm, beaches, and old-town atmosphere. Ideal for couples and families, it offers Greek island character without overwhelming crowds. Jet2 Holidays 2026 is introducing Chania to meet growing interest in authentic Greek island escapes.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbour.
- Day 2: Boat trip to Balos Lagoon for snorkelling and beach time.
- Day 3: Hike Samaria Gorge or explore inland villages.
- Day 4: Take a cooking class or olive farm tour.
- Day 5: Relax at Elafonisi Beach.
Accommodation highlights: Boutique hotels, family-run guesthouses, and beachfront resorts.
Best time to visit: May–June or September–October.
Kos, Greece
Kos is known for wide beaches, shallow waters, and historical ruins. Its manageable size makes it perfect for cycling and day trips. Another highlight of Jet2 Holidays 2026 is increased access to Kos from regional UK airports.
Suggested itinerary:
- Day 1: Explore Kos Town, including Hippocrates Tree and medieval castle.
- Day 2: Relax at Tigaki Beach with water sports.
- Day 3: Bike tour to Psalidi and nearby vineyards.
- Day 4: Visit Asklepion ruins and local museums.
- Day 5: Boat trip to Nisyros or Kalymnos islands.
Accommodation highlights: Beachfront resorts, family-friendly hotels, and boutique stays.
Best time to visit: May–June and September.
Adriatic & Italian coastal upgrades (Split, Pula, northern Italy)
Split, Pula, and northern Italy offer a mix of heritage towns, beaches, and local cuisine. These expansions are a key part of Jet2 Holidays 2026’s push for more diverse European options.
Suggested itinerary (Split):
- Day 1: Explore Diocletian’s Palace and old town streets.
- Day 2: Ferry to Hvar for beaches and nightlife.
- Day 3: Bacvice Beach for relaxation and local seafood.
- Day 4: Day trip to Trogir or Krka National Park.
- Day 5: Wine and olive oil tasting before departure.
Best time to visit: May–June or September.
Longer-term moves: Egypt and the Red Sea (Hurghada & Sharm El‑Sheikh)
Egyptian Red Sea destinations offer winter sun, diving, and all-inclusive resorts. Jet2 Holidays 2026 plans include these destinations as part of a longer-term winter-sun strategy.
Suggested itinerary (Sharm El‑Sheikh):
- Day 1: Arrival and resort relaxation.
- Day 2: Snorkelling or diving at Ras Mohammed National Park.
- Day 3: Desert safari with Bedouin village visit.
- Day 4: Free beach day with water sports options.
- Day 5: Explore Naama Bay for shopping and dining.
Best time to visit: November–March.
A larger, more efficient fleet
Jet2 is introducing Airbus A321neos, offering more seats, improved fuel efficiency, and quieter cabins. This fleet upgrade supports Jet2 Holidays 2026’s expanded programme.
Benefits:
- More seats, keeping prices competitive.
- Better handling of peak weeks.
- Quieter cabins for early departures.
What this expansion means for travellers
- More airports: Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Gatwick.
- Stronger package inventory: More family rooms, all-inclusive resorts, flexible dates.
- Peak-period access: Extra seats reduce frustration during school holidays.
- Early-booking deals: New routes often launch with promotional fares, a key feature of Jet2 Holidays 2026.
Practical tips when booking
- Move early on new routes.
- Compare package vs flight-only options.
- Consider shoulder-season travel.
- Check aircraft type (A321neo preferred).
- Confirm dates as timetables can shift near launch.
On-the-ground expectations
Jet2 provides airport support, pre-arranged transfers, vetted hotels, and 24/7 assistance at destinations. Jet2 Holidays 2026 maintains these high standards for new routes.
Jet2 Holidays 2026 strategy
Jet2’s 2026 strategy: expand regionally, introduce new routes, improve holiday accessibility. With Gatwick, the A321neo fleet, and destinations from La Palma to Chania, Jet2 Holidays 2026 promises more choice, availability, and competitive early-bird deals.