AN EXCITING new route offering six flights a week from Southend Airport to one of the world’s fashion capitals has officially been announced. 

Southend Airport bosses confirmed that it has stuck a deal with Italy’s second largest airline, Aeroitalia, to launch the near-daily flights to Milan Bergamo. 

The Italian city is best known as one of the most fashionable in the world, home to major brands such as Versace and Prada, but it is also rich in history with famous landmarks including the stunning Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci’s mural “The Last Supper”.

Echo: Historic - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele IIHistoric - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (Image: Pixabay)

 

The airport previously had a route to Milan through Ryanair, before the budget airline pulled its four flights a week during the Covid pandemic in winter 2021. 

The new route is part of Southend Airport’s continued revival since the pandemic wreaked havoc on the airport and the travel industry. 

The new Aeroitalia flights start on Monday, March 25, and are on sale now from 79.99 euros one-way. They also mark the airline’s first service to the UK.

John Upton, CEO of Southend Airport, said: “We are delighted to announce this new and exciting collaboration with Aeroitalia, the second largest Italian airline, bringing near-daily flights to Milan Bergamo.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone for London Southend Airport, providing our passengers in the east of London and Southeast England with a convenient gateway to the heart of Italian fashion and culture.”

 

Echo: World-famous landmark - Duomo di Milano cathedralWorld-famous landmark - Duomo di Milano cathedral (Image: Pixabay)

 

The exciting announcement follows the return of multiple routes as Southend Airport revealed it is on track to beat its 2019 passenger performance. 

It also brings the number of destinations now available from the airport in 2024 to 11 – compared to three when easyJet returned in 2022.

Gaetano Intrieri, CEO of Aeroitalia, added: “This initiative is the result of hard work, dedication and commitment from the entire Aeroitalia team. We are determined to continue to improve and expand our operations to always offer you high-quality services.

“We are confident that this new route will become a bridge between cultures, connecting our beautiful Italian cities with the vibrant energy of London.”