Spanish airline Vueling is to start operating flights from Southampton to Barcelona from June 2012 as it looks to move into more UK regional airports.
The carrier announced last year it was also starting services from Barcelona El Prat to Cardiff – which is due to commence from March 27, 2012.
The new Southampton route will be operated three days a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using Airbus A319 aircraft. It will start from June 23.
Vueling CEO Alex Cruz said: “We are delighted to incorporate Southampton in our expanding UK route network.
“Southampton, with its strong catchment and complementary ties to the cruise lines, is an obvious choice for Vueling as we look to develop our UK presence beyond Heathrow and into the regions.”
Dave Lees, managing director of Southampton Airport, added: “Barcelona is a very important new route for Southampton Airport and the surrounding area.
“We are delighted to be welcoming Vueling in 2012 and the regular flights to Barcelona. We have had many requests for this service from the cruise industry, marine industry, universities and language schools.”
Vueling has also announced it was adding a summer service from Barcelona to Edinburgh. This will operate three times a week from June 22 to September 15.
The move came as Vueling announced its adding five new aircraft to its fleet - four Airbus A320s and one Airbus A319 – as part of a €325 million investment. The airline said this was its biggest spending spree since it merged with Click Air three years ago.
Vueling is adding 23 routes in 2012 including 10 new services which were announced today.
For more information visit vueling.com.
Report by Rob Gill
