With the recent debut of new flights from London by low-cost airline Wizz Air, people in the United Kingdom will be able to go to Saudi Arabia for a substantially lower cost.
Beginning in March 2025, a new Airbus A321XLR aircraft will connect Gatwick Airport with Jeddah on a seven-hour overnight journey. Starting in June, the carrier will also operate a route from Milan, Italy, to Abu Dhabi.
The price of tickets to Jeddah is 135 pound (USD 176.5), and there will be up to 239 seats available on each aircraft. The airline added that certain flights will connect “two thriving cities” and be available every day of the year for USD 116.99.
“The Airbus A321XLR is the most cost-efficient aircraft of its class and, given the enhanced range capability, it enables Wizz Air to connect the furthest destinations in its network and further expand it, connecting cultures and continents,” said Andras Rado, head of communications and government affairs at a press conference in Jeddah.
“We’re thrilled to provide our customers with exceptional pricing on the recently announced route to London, all while providing the most environmentally friendly flying choice possible. With the introduction of this new aircraft type, long-haul ultra-low-cost travel has entered a new era,” the official added.
Wizz Air has placed an order for 47 Airbus aircraft, making it one of the first operators of the new model, along with Aer Lingus and Iberia. With an 8,700 km range, A321XLR has the longest range of any Airbus A320, and it produces 30% less carbon emissions than rival Boeing 757 and 767 models.
According to Gatwick Airport CEO Stewart Wingate, the new approach should enable the transport hub to add more long-haul services.
With the new service to Jeddah, Wizz Air intends to undercut British Airways. The venture stated that it “remains committed to increasing its footprint in Saudi Arabia and beyond” in a press release.
The airline went on to say that it is “improving the nation’s connectivity in accordance with Vision 2030 and in accordance with a collaboration agreement with the Saudi Tourism Authority to encourage inbound tourism and increase connection to Europe.”