LEEDS- Jet2 (LS) has confirmed a new direct leisure route from London Stansted Airport (STN) to Almería Airport (LEI), serving Spain’s Costa de Almería region from May 2027. The announcement aligns with a major passenger milestone at the airport.
The airline has now carried 15 million passengers through London Stansted Airport (STN) since launching operations in March 2017, when its first flight departed for Faro Airport, Portugal (FAO), as reported by the Daily Gazette.
Jet2 Costa de Almería Route
The addition of Costa de Almería expands Jet2’s southern Spain network and reinforces its focus on sun-led leisure destinations.
The region attracts UK holidaymakers year-round with its Mediterranean coastline and established resorts.
The route launch reflects Jet2’s long-term planning at London Stansted, where consistent demand has supported network growth across Spain, mainland Europe, and island markets.
Network Expansion at Stansted
Since its first Stansted departure in March 2017, Jet2 has expanded its flying programme to 61 sun, city, and ski destinations.
Sustained customer demand and increased operational capacity at the airport have driven this growth.
For Summer 2026, Jet2 has placed 2.4 million seats on sale from London Stansted. The airline will also commence new services to Jerez Airport, Spain (XRY), Samos International Airport, Greece (SMI), and La Palma Airport in the Canary Islands (SPC) for the first time.
Fleet Deployment and Seasonal Capacity Position
Based on its Winter 2025/2026 capacity, Jet2 currently ranks as the second-largest carrier at London Stansted.
The airline now bases 17 aircraft at the airport, compared with just 6 aircraft when operations began.
This fleet growth underlines Jet2’s confidence in the Stansted market and supports its expanding route portfolio across peak summer and winter seasons.
Employment Growth and Executive Perspectives
Jet2 launched at London Stansted with approximately 250 roles and now employs nearly 1,200 staff members at the airport.
The expansion reflects continued investment in people, infrastructure, and long-term operations.
Steve Heapy, Chief Executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, described the 15 million passenger figure as an important milestone, crediting customer loyalty, colleague support, and the airline’s award-winning flights and holidays for driving sustained success.
He also stated that the airline is focused on carrying many more customers on future holidays from Stansted.
Ciaran Brannigan, Commercial Director at London Stansted Airport, said the milestone represents a significant success for both Jet2 and the airport.
He highlighted Jet2’s role in expanding passenger choice, creating hundreds of jobs, and investing heavily in the region, adding that the airport looks forward to supporting the airline’s continued expansion.
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