easyJet Launches Ibiza Flights, Fueling London Southend's Record Growth
Key Points
- 1easyJet will launch a new twice-weekly London Southend to Ibiza flight starting April 29, 2026, using its three-aircraft Airbus A320neo base.
- 2London Southend Airport (SEN) was the UK's fastest-growing airport in early 2025, with a 106% passenger increase, validating easyJet's expansion strategy.
- 3The new route reinforces UK-Spain air links, a market that saw 17.8 million visits from UK residents in 2024, according to ONS data.
- 4The expansion occurs amid ongoing overtourism protests in the Balearic Islands, highlighting the industry's need for sustainable growth strategies.
The low-cost giant easyJet is significantly expanding its network. It is adding a new route from London Southend Airport (SEN) to the Balearic island of Ibiza (IBZ). This move provides more options for UK holidaymakers. The new flight highlights the carrier’s commitment to its newest London-area base.
Network Expansion and Key Details
The new easyJet London Southend to Ibiza service begins on April 29, 2026. Flights will operate twice weekly, running on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This schedule is ideal for short breaks or longer holidays on the popular island. Ibiza is globally known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches.
This route is part of a broader expansion plan for the airline at SEN. easyJet will also launch a new service to Munich (MUC) starting September 17, 2026. This flight will operate twice a week. Furthermore, the carrier plans to resume its Jersey flight for the summer 2026 season. These additions bring easyJet’s total network from the Essex airport to 25 destinations.
London Southend's Growth Trajectory
London Southend Airport is experiencing a major resurgence. The facility is located approximately 41 miles outside the capital. It is connected by a 55-minute train service from Liverpool Street. The airport was recently named the UK's fastest-growing. Passenger numbers increased by a remarkable 106% between January and April 2025, according to UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) figures.
This growth is powered by the opening of an easyJet base in March 2025. The base houses three modern Airbus A320neo aircraft. This investment underscores the airline's strategy to leverage available capacity in the London market. London’s major hubs like Heathrow and Gatwick face congestion.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK Country Manager, noted the new routes. He stated the additions provide customers with more choice and great value. The airline aims to make travel easy and affordable.
Wider UK-Spain Air Links
In addition to the flights to Ibiza, easyJet is also expanding at London Gatwick (easyJet). A new route to Reus (REU) in Spain is set to launch. Reus serves the Catalan city of Tarragona and the Costa Dorada. This service will start on June 22, 2026, operating three times weekly.
Spain remains the top overseas destination for British tourists. UK residents made an estimated 17.8 million visits to the country in 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This high demand continues to drive European leisure travel route development.
Challenges of Overtourism
The expansion of UK-Spain air links comes amid a growing debate. The issue of overtourism protests Spain is becoming more prominent. Residents in popular areas, including the Balearic Islands travel hotspots of Mallorca and Ibiza, have protested.
- Protests in 2024 and 2025 highlighted concerns over rising housing costs.
- Locals cite the pressure placed on infrastructure and quality of life.
- Activists emphasize they are not against tourists, but against an unsustainable tourism model.
This social context presents a challenge for the aviation sector. Airlines and airports must balance growth with sustainability concerns. The industry must support local economies without negatively impacting residents. For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit flying.flights.
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