NEW flights are set to launch to Bulgaria from Southend as the airport continues to cement itself as the go-to base for European breaks and long weekends away. 

Today, Southend Airport is announcing the launch of new flights to the stunning coastal city of Bourgas, in Bulgaria, for summer 2024. 

Balkan Holidays, which is operating the flights, says Bourgas it has “something to suit everyone” with plenty of history, restorative mud baths, sporting opportunities, and of course stunning beaches.

This is the latest destination that Southend Airport will serve, on top of flights to Geneva, in Switzerland, Paris and Amsterdam.

The airport also flies to Malaga, Faro, and Majorca, but the recent announcement of flights to European cities appears to show a switch of focus from summer holidays to city breaks and short European getaways. 

John Upton, CEO of Southend Airport, said this is another great example of the airport’s growth opportunity.  

He said: “We are delighted to be working with our new tour operator partner Balkan Holidays, launching another new route from London’s quick and easy airport.

“People living in London, Essex and across the southeast of England can choose this destination for summer 2024 and travel to us, by train, within 43 minutes from London Stratford.

“This announcement is further assurance of our commitment to rebuilding London Southend Airport and a great example of our growth opportunity.

“We are confident that there is more to come for summer 2024.”

Bourgas is synonymous with “partying” and its nightlife.

Flights officially went on sale this morning, with the new holiday route operating every Monday, from June 17, 2024.

The new charter service, operated by Balkan Holidays, will run for 13 weeks until Monday, September 2, 2024.

Chris Rand, Balkan Holidays marketing manager, added: “Our holidays to the beautiful Black Sea coast of Bulgaria are very popular.

“We are thrilled to be offering flights from London Southend Airport for summer 2024 giving people across Essex, London, East Anglia and beyond easy and convenient access to our great value for money and high-quality holidays.”