British Airways is proposing to launch a new short-haul airline from London Gatwick airport.
It has been reported the UK flag carrier is planning to begin operating flights to European and domestic destinations to compete with low-cost airlines.
The airline ceased operating short-haul network from Gatwick at the start of the pandemic, but some long-haul flights have resumed.
BA is said to be in consultation with unions about the proposals to begin services with the as yet un-named new airline.
Travel data and analytics expert Cirium said British Airways has a network of 47 short-haul routes from Gatwick that have been on hold since Spring 2020 because of Covid-19.
Looking ahead, British Airways already has 1,881 short-haul flights scheduled for the peak summer month of July next year, with 331,009 seats available.
Most popular destination by flights is Jersey, followed by Malaga in Spain and Faro in Portugal. BA is currently scheduled to be the second largest airline at Gatwick, behind easyJet.
It is understood that the airline plans to use the same staff, aircraft and slots as those used in March 2020 for the new operation, which could begin at Easter 2022.
A spokesperson said: “We are working with our unions on proposals for a short-haul operation at Gatwick. We are not prepared to comment further while this process continues.”
To book a flight or holiday with British Airways visit their website here.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
