Eurowings and Wizz Air Bolster Gatwick Presence in Strategic Shift

London Gatwick (LGW/EGKK) has seen a significant boost to its European and medium-haul network this week as airlines finalise their summer 2026 schedules. The announcements, led by the Lufthansa Group and Wizz Air, underscore a growing trend of carriers pivoting towards Gatwick to secure growth that remains elusive at a slot-constrained Heathrow.

Eurowings Moves Operations South

In the most notable move of the week, German carrier Eurowings has confirmed it will relocate a substantial portion of its London flying from Heathrow to Gatwick starting 29 March 2026.

The move includes the launch of a 13-times-weekly service to Cologne (CGN), providing a near-double-daily frequency for business and leisure travellers. This will be followed on 13 April by a six-times-weekly service to Stuttgart (STR). Analysts suggest the move is a strategic play to lower operating costs while maintaining high-frequency access to the London market.

Wizz Air Expands XLR Base

Budget giant Wizz Air continues to place its bets on Gatwick’s long-term potential, announcing on 28 January that it will base a third Airbus A321XLR at the airport.

The arrival of the extra-long-range aircraft in September 2026 will facilitate:

• Increased Mid-East Connectivity: Boosting frequencies to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Daily European Rotations: Moving both Valencia and Prague to daily services from 15 September.

2026 Growth Trajectory

The new routes come as Gatwick prepares for a “transformative” spring season. The airport’s aviation development team noted this week that preparations for the arrival of Jet2’s new 29-route base in March remain on schedule.

“The commitment from Eurowings and the continued investment from Wizz Air demonstrate the enduring appeal of Gatwick,” a spokesperson for London Gatwick said. “As we move into 2026, our focus remains on providing the capacity and efficiency that allows our airline partners to thrive.”

Route Announcements