Budget airline Wizz Air on Wednesday said it had bought Norwegian Air’s slots at Britain’s Gatwick airport for an undisclosed sum.
Wizz said it would base four additional Airbus A320neos at the airport from spring 2022 after acquiring 15 daily slot pairs from Norwegian to launch new routes.
This means it will now operate five planes out of Gatwick next year as easyJet and British Airways’ new low-cost arm battle for passengers.
“The successful bid for more slots reiterates Wizz Air’s long-term commitment to both the airport and the region,” the airline 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,” said chief executive Jozsef Varadi.
“Acquiring airport slots at Gatwick airport will enable us to enhance our presence and competitive position in the London market. The 2022 season has the potential to be a tremendous opportunity for UK aviation to get back on its feet.”
