The global travel industry is experiencing a resurgence, with passenger numbers projected to reach five billion in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This surge in demand is driving airlines to expand their route networks, offering travelers a wider array of destinations for their next holiday. Several major airlines, including easyJet, TUI, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic, have announced exciting new routes for 2025, catering to diverse travel preferences, from sun-soaked islands to culturally rich cities. This expansion promises to make planning your next getaway even more enticing.
EasyJet is leading the charge with its longest flight yet, connecting London Gatwick to the island of Sal in Cape Verde. This new route, launching in March 2025, opens up opportunities for travelers seeking year-round sunshine and a tropical escape. The airline is also expanding its reach within Europe with new connections from Manchester and Edinburgh to Milan, London Gatwick to Rimini, London Luton to Tbilisi, and Birmingham to Gran Canaria and Malta. Furthermore, Bristol will gain access to Almeria and Palermo, broadening the options for UK travelers.
TUI is making a significant comeback to Southampton Airport after a 15-year hiatus, offering a new weekly flight to Palma, Majorca, starting in May 2025. This move underscores the airline’s commitment to providing regional airport access for its customers. TUI is also expanding its long-haul offerings with new flights from Cardiff to Barbados and Cancun in 2026. Additional routes include connections from London Luton to Paphos, Bournemouth to Majorca, London Gatwick to Porto, East Midlands to Burgas and Cape Verde, London Stansted to Enfidha, and Exeter to Ibiza, as well as Cardiff to Fuerteventura.
British Airways is strengthening its long-haul network with a new route from London Heathrow to Tbilisi, Georgia, commencing in March 2025. This marks the return of direct flights between the UK and Georgia after a two-year absence. The airline is also reinstating flights from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur in April 2025, after a five-year hiatus. On the short-haul front, British Airways will introduce flights from London Gatwick to Salerno, London City to Olbia, and London Heathrow to Rimini, further diversifying its European offerings.
Virgin Atlantic is returning to the Mexican holiday hotspot of Cancun with a new direct flight from London Heathrow, starting in October 2025. This route, previously suspended in 2019, provides travelers with a convenient option for reaching Cancun directly from the UK’s largest airport. The airline is also expanding its network with new routes from London Heathrow to Saudi Arabia and Accra, Ghana. The Cancun flights will operate three times a week, offering a much-anticipated connection to this popular Caribbean destination.
As air travel continues to rebound, understanding airline baggage policies is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Each airline has specific regulations regarding cabin and checked baggage allowances, often varying based on the class of travel. British Airways generally allows one cabin bag and one personal item, with weight limits dependent on the ticket type. EasyJet permits one small cabin bag, while checked baggage is subject to fees. Ryanair also has specific size and weight restrictions for cabin baggage, with priority boarding offering additional allowance.
Virgin Atlantic’s baggage policy varies based on travel class, with Upper Class passengers enjoying more generous allowances. Emirates, a major international carrier, also differentiates baggage allowances by class and fare type. Knowing these rules in advance helps avoid unexpected fees and ensures a hassle-free journey. With airlines expanding their routes and passenger numbers soaring, familiarizing oneself with these policies is essential for a seamless travel experience.
