Wizz Air has confirmed expansion at Gatwick by acquiring slots from Norwegian Air for an undisclosed sum.
The UK arm of the Hungarian budget carrier will base four additional Airbus A320neos at the airport from spring 2022 with new routes to be announced “in due course”.
The airline will deploy a total of five aircraft at Gatwick next year as it mounts a low fare challenge to easyJet and British Airways’ new arm at the London airport.
It has acquired 15 daily slot pairs from Norwegian Air to launch “a host” of new routes.
The slots will also create “significant” inbound flight opportunities for Wizz Air Hungary.
Wizz Air entered Gatwick in October 2020.
“The successful bid for more slots reiterates Wizz Air’s long-term commitment to both the airport and the region,” the airline said.
Group chief executive Jozsef Varadi said: “This announcement is further evidence of our commitment to London Gatwick airport as well as the UK market, as we continue to create local jobs and deliver our promise of providing low-fare travel opportunities with excellent service to an ever-increasing range of exciting destinations, while flying one of the greenest aircraft fleets available on the market today.
“Acquiring airport slots at Gatwick airport will enable us to enhance our presence and competitive position in the London market.
“We continue to develop our business in United Kingdom and remain committed to making air travel affordable for all.
“The 2022 season has the potential to be a tremendous opportunity for UK aviation to get back on its feet.”
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