Budget carrier Wizz Air will begin operating flights between London Gatwick and the Albanian capital Tirana from October 26, 2025, with services running five times weekly.
The airline already connects London Luton with Tirana, making this its second connection between the UK capital and Albania.
This boosts Wizz Air's network in Southeast Europe while giving British travellers more ways to reach Albania, which has gained popularity as a Mediterranean holiday spot.
The new service represents part of the carrier's broader growth strategy from London airports, where it now offers 88 different routes.
From Tirana, holidaymakers can visit places like Vlore, giving the region the name of the "Maldives of Europe"
|GETTY
Albania has earned the nickname "Maldives of Europe" thanks to its turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches stretching along both the Ionian and Adriatic coastlines. Vlore has tropical beauty and is just a two-hour drive from Tirana.
The country offers visitors Mediterranean food, warm welcomes and a wealth of cultural history, attracting both beach lovers and those seeking adventure.
Managing Director at Wizz Air UK, Yvonne Moynihan, said: "We are delighted to announce our new route from London Gatwick to Tirana, adding to our existing routes from London Luton.
"With Albania increasingly recognised as the 'Maldives of Europe', this route allows more of our customers to discover untapped destinations across southeastern Europe.
"This flight marks our 88th route available from London this year, and we're proud to continue investing in our airline to provide more affordable and unique travel experiences for our customers."
Tickets will start at £19.99 when bookings open on the airline's website and mobile app.
The service will use Airbus A321neo aircraft, which the carrier describes as the quietest and most fuel-efficient single-aisle planes currently available.
The Gatwick-Tirana announcement follows the recent launch of Wizz Air's first direct service between London Gatwick and Medina, which began operating this month.
NEW ROUTES
The airline recently announced more flights to Spain
|GETTY
The budget airline has also revealed plans for a major Spanish expansion from London Luton Airport, with services to five destinations beginning on March 29, 2026.
Travellers will be able to fly to Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville and Bilbao, with tickets starting at £17.99.
Barcelona will receive 10 flights weekly, while Madrid will have daily connections. The timing coincides with Easter holidays and precedes the summer travel season, offering passengers numerous options for Spanish city breaks and longer holidays throughout the peak period.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter