British Airways is set to enhance its route offerings by launching a new seasonal service between London Gatwick and Dublin International. This service, scheduled to run from May 20 to September 29, 2024, will utilize an ATR72-600 aircraft wet-leased from Emerald Airlines, based in Dublin. This expansion comes at a time when the route options between these cities are limited, with Ryanair currently being the sole operator since Aer Lingus ceased its operations on this sector in March 2024.
The British Airways flights will operate twice daily on weekdays and once daily during weekends, providing flexible options for both business and leisure travelers during the peak Northern Hemisphere summer period. The ATR72-600, known for its efficiency on short-haul routes, is an ideal choice for this service, emphasizing British Airways’ commitment to sustainability and reduced operational costs.
Emerald Airlines, the provider of the ATR72-600, operates a fleet of ten such aircraft, primarily under the Aer Lingus Regional brand. This arrangement with British Airways marks a significant utilization of their fleet, highlighting the carrier’s growing presence in regional air transport within the UK and Ireland.
This new service by British Airways will position Gatwick as a hub for ATR – Avions de Transport Régional turboprop operations, joining other operators such as Aurigny Air Services and Eastern Airways. It underscores Gatwick’s role in connecting regional destinations efficiently, further enriching its airline portfolio and service offerings to passengers.
