Major UK airport launches 14 new routes including flights to Portugal, Italy and beyond

The major UK airport told Britons: "Passengers across London and the South East will have the choice of 223 destinations from 56 airlines at London Gatwick this summer, with 14 new services launching ahead of the UK school summer holidays."

New routes that were recently launched include short-haul flights to Gothenburg (Sweden), Vagar (Faroe Islands), and Ponta Delgada (Azores, Portugal).

A new service to Varna (Bulgaria) launched on June 18, with flights to Salerno (Italy) due to start on July 13.

Additional services to Jersey (Channel Islands), Skiathos (Greece), and Rome (Italy) are also now operating.

For those looking to explore a destination further afield, new long-haul options include Halifax (Canada), St John’s (Canada), Beijing (China) and Erbil (Iraq).

Flights to Guangzhou (China) will commence on June 20, with flights to Singapore starting on June 22.

VP of Aviation Development at London Gatwick Stephanie Wear commented on the new flight routes.

She said: "It's fantastic that London Gatwick can offer passengers such an exciting range of destinations this summer, whether for holidays, visiting family and friends, or business trips.

"As we work towards our vision of becoming the airport for everyone, whatever your journey, we are committed to providing passengers as much choice as possible.

"We are delighted to continue growing our already extensive network and welcome new airlines including ITA Airways, Atlantic Airways, Azores Airlines, Singapore Airlines and FlyErbil.

"We are looking forward to welcoming passengers as they fly from London Gatwick this summer.

"Once at the airport, 95 per cent of passengers on average fly through security in less than five minutes and can experience great retail and food and beverage offerings."

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Before going on holiday, it's important to consult the UK Government's advice on visiting your chosen country.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) recently gave holidaymakers advice on visiting a popular tourist destination in Africa.

Britons were told to "avoid large crowds", as a popular destination may erupt in "protests".

In other holiday news, for Britons who are more inclined to enjoy a staycation, British Isles with "Caribbean-coloured sea" are just hours away from London by train.