Southampton Airport hailed as 'stress free' alternative to London airports

Travellers can now take an easyJet flight from Southampton without the stress of a London airport with the operator set to bring more choice for holiday makers this summer.

Southampton Airport bosses have said that the airport will aim to compete against London airports for those living in and around Southampton.

Aviation Director Chris Tibbett told the Echo that this summer residents will be able to take holiday flights to even more destinations in Spain, France and Portugal without the stress of travelling to and flying from London airports.

Southampton Airport has a catchment size similar to large regional airports such as Bristol and Edinburgh but, until recently, the focus had been mostly on domestic flights.

Chris said: "In a very short time, easyJet has grown to six domestic and international routes from Southampton and we only want to see this increase.

"Our key message to airlines is that you can better serve local people and meet local demand, whilst providing a more relaxing start to their holiday by flying from Southampton.

"My team is in constant discussions with multiple airlines, but establishing a route is an expensive process that takes time."

In addition to existing holiday flights from British Airways and TUI, easyJet have now announced that from this summer, the airline will be whisking holidaymakers to Palma, the Algarve and Alicante, whilst French carrier Chalair has announced the UK’s only flight to Caen in Normandy.

Chris continued: "Southampton Airport prides itself on being a low-stress environment.

"It’s just 99 steps from the train to the terminal and we are situated right next to the M27 motorway, providing great connectivity across Hampshire.

"The car park is directly opposite the terminal and walk times are short, making the travel experience far less stressful for travellers.”

Chris also added that the airport has a range of facilities such as a revamped Olive Tree bar, a large Costa Coffee with runway views and duty-free shopping.