EasyJet launches Gatwick-Newquay route after PSO ends

easyJet has launched a new route from London Gatwick to Cornwall Airport Newquay.

The first service was operated on 23 June, and it will continue to link the two airports on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer. 

easyJet launches first international service to Newquay

The airline has also confirmed its first international route from Newquay, a winter service to Geneva, operated by Swiss-based crew, launching in January 2027. 

EasyJet, which took delivery of its 100th Neo aircraft, already operates a Manchester-Newquay service which the airport says has delivered a “strong performance”.

Nigel Scott, commercial director at Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “It’s fantastic to see easyJet’s new London Gatwick service take to the skies, strengthening our London connectivity during the busy summer season and giving local passengers greater choice while making it even easier for visitors to experience everything Cornwall has to offer.

“To be confirming easyJet’s first-ever international route from Newquay in the same breath is a real milestone for the airport.”

End of the Gatwick-Newquay PSO

EasyJet secured the Gatwick-Newquay route after Skybus axed the route following a decision by Cornwall Council to end its support for the Public Service Obligation (PSO) route, which is jointly subsidised by the Department for Transport (DfT) and local authorities or devolved governments.

As a result of that decision, Skybus cancelled all flights on the route beyond the end of May this year. 

Skybus had stepped in to cover the route when former operator Eastern Airways fell into administration. 

The airline of the Isles of Scilly had intended to operate the route using a 70-seat ATR72 aircraft leased from Blue Islands, but the carrier collapsed days later. 

Initially, Skybus used a Boeing 737 leased from Ascend Airways, and the airline subsequently secured a De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400, operated by Universal Air. 

Now, the route is being served by easyJet’s fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft. The inaugural flight was operated by an A320, and the following two flights by A319s. 

Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK country manager, added: “We are delighted to have launched our summer route between London Gatwick and Newquay, and to be putting our first international service from the region on sale, with our winter route to Geneva. 

“Together they offer customers greater regional connectivity and access to Europe and beyond through our leading short-haul network, while continuing to support Cornwall’s important visitor economy.”