Gatwick Airport: Major Changes Coming in 2026

9 January 2026 Travel

Introduction: A Transformative Year for Britain’s Second-Busiest Airport

Gatwick Airport, London’s second-largest aviation hub, is experiencing significant changes in 2026 that will impact millions of passengers travelling through the West Sussex facility. From new airline operations to increased charges and temporary travel disruptions, these developments mark a pivotal year for the airport as it continues to evolve its role in UK aviation.

Jet2’s Historic Launch at Gatwick

British leisure airline Jet2 has announced its 14th UK base will open at London Gatwick Airport in March 2026. Jet2 said its first flight from the West Sussex airport will depart to Tenerife, Spain, on 26 March 2026. A fleet of six aircraft will fly customers to a wide choice of destinations across Mainland Spain, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Greece, Turkey, Portugal, Malta, Italy, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. This expansion represents a major milestone, with five brand-new fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo aircraft initially serving 29 destinations.

Drop-Off Charges Increase Substantially

London Gatwick, the city’s second-biggest aviation hub, has confirmed that it is increasing charges in its drop-off zones by £3 in 2026. From January the fee, which allows drivers to stop outside the terminal for 10 minutes, will be £10. The fee hike is part of a strategy to offset rising costs, including a more than doubling of business rates for the airport. However, passengers can avoid these charges by utilising long-stay car parks, which offer free drop-off with complimentary shuttle buses to terminals.

US Flight Reductions and Rail Disruptions

Delta Air Lines confirmed it will not resume flights to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) in 2026, concentrating on the larger Heathrow Airport (LHR). During the first half of 2026, total flights between the U.S. and LGW will be down more than 25% versus 2025. Additionally, there are going to be several weekends of closures on the Brighton Mainline in the first few months of 2026, affecting travel from London to Gatwick Airport. Rail replacement buses will operate during these disruptions, though journey times may extend significantly.

Conclusion: Navigating Change

The changes at Gatwick Airport in 2026 reflect broader trends in UK aviation, including airline consolidation around major hubs, increased operational costs, and infrastructure maintenance requirements. While Jet2’s arrival brings expanded leisure options for Southeast England travellers, the increased drop-off charges and reduced transatlantic connectivity signal shifts in how the airport positions itself competitively. Passengers should plan ahead, consider alternative transport options, and stay informed about schedule changes to ensure smooth travel experiences through this period of transition.