The first scheduled flight by Freebird Airlines from Gatwick to Turkey has taken off after a two-year delay due to the pandemic.
The initial plan for Gatwick by the Turkish carrier was suspended in summer 2020 due to Covid-19.
The easing of Covid travel regulations and the ability to secure a pool of slots at Gatwick has allowed Freebird to start serving Bodrum and Antalya.
Gatwick-Antalya flights will rub four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, while Bodrum will be served twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The airline made its debut at Gatwick last week after starting a service to Antalya from Manchester Airport earlier in May.
Contracts manager Osman Kinali said: “Much preparation has been placed into the commencement of both our Gatwick and Manchester operations with the addition of dedicated Freebird agents to support the customer experience in what is a challenging time for airport infrastructure.
“We believe this is an important asset when our passengers travel with us.”
The airline’s head of UK sales Carl Denton added: “We are working hard to support UK travel businesses to offer the seat-only content that builds the holidays they wish to offer to their customers.
“Our goal is to support and work closely with these trade partners and welcome those not currently working with us to join us in our journey.”
Gatwick airline business development manager David Bell said: “We are delighted to welcome Freebird to the Gatwick airport family. Freebird’s new service will offer passengers across London and the south east greater opportunity for a much-needed holiday.”