In the competitive landscape of European aviation, Jet2 has emerged as a major player, evolving from humble beginnings to become the UK’s third-largest airline and largest tour operator. With its distinctive friendly service approach and focus on leisure destinations, Jet2 has carved out a successful niche in the market, connecting millions of British holidaymakers to sunny destinations across Europe.
History and Origins
The origins of Jet2 can be traced back to 1971 when Art Carpenter established Carpenter’s Air Services and Carpenter’s Transport Ltd. Initially focused on transporting flowers from Guernsey in the Channel Islands to the UK mainland, the business expanded in 1975 when Carpenter collaborated with other exporters to form Express Air Freight. This cargo-focused operation used Douglas DC-3 aircraft to transport flowers to the mainland and carry freight back to the Channel Islands.
In 1978, the carrier acquired its first Handley Page Dart Herald aircraft, which proved ideal for island connectivity. This acquisition would later inspire the name “Dart Group” for the parent company. By 1983, the business had evolved into Channel Express, establishing itself as a reliable cargo carrier.
The turn of the millennium marked a significant shift for the company. In 2001, Dart Group purchased two Boeing 737-300QC (Quick Change) aircraft, which could transform from a 148-passenger cabin to a 16-tonne freighter in just 30 minutes. This versatility laid the foundation for the company’s entry into passenger services.
The Jet2 brand was officially established in 2002, with the airline’s website selling 12,000 seats within its first 24 hours of operation. The inaugural Jet2 passenger flight took off from Leeds Bradford Airport to Amsterdam on February 12, 2003. That first year, the airline carried 360,000 passengers, beginning a trajectory of rapid growth.
Initially marketing itself as “The North’s Low-Cost Airline,” Jet2 expanded beyond its northern England roots to establish bases across the UK. In 2007, the company launched Jet2holidays, offering package holidays that would eventually become the UK’s largest tour operator, surpassing TUI in 2023.
Fleet and Operations
Jet2’s fleet has evolved significantly since its early days. From its initial pair of Boeing 737-300QC aircraft, the airline has grown to operate a fleet of over 100 aircraft.
As of 2025, Jet2’s fleet consists primarily of:
- Boeing 737-800s (making up the majority of the fleet)
- A growing number of Airbus A321neo aircraft
- A small number of Airbus A321-200s
A significant transition began in 2021 when Jet2 announced an order for 36 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking a shift away from its traditionally Boeing-dominated fleet. This order has since been expanded, with Jet2’s commitment to Airbus growing to 110 firm orders for A320neo family aircraft. The airline has already taken delivery of the first few A321neos, with more scheduled to arrive in the coming years.
The A321neo represents an important step in the airline’s fleet modernization, offering greater fuel efficiency and operational capabilities. These aircraft are configured with 232 seats and feature Airbus’ modern “Airspace” cabin.
Jet2 retired its final Boeing 757-200 aircraft in January 2025, marking the end of an era for an aircraft type that had served the airline for many years. During peak periods, Jet2 also leases widebody aircraft, such as the Airbus A330-200, to accommodate increased passenger demand on popular routes.
Hubs and Destinations
From its original base at Leeds Bradford Airport, Jet2 has established a network of 13 operating bases across the UK, including:
- Leeds Bradford Airport (original hub)
- Manchester Airport
- Birmingham Airport
- London Stansted Airport
Additionally, the airline maintains overseas bases at Alicante Airport, Palma de Mallorca Airport, and Tenerife South Airport.
Jet2 serves more than 70 destinations across Europe, with a focus on popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and European leisure cities. The airline’s route network includes approximately 475 routes, serving holiday spots in countries including Spain, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Portugal, and France.
The company’s destination strategy emphasizes leisure travel, focusing on destinations that appeal to British holidaymakers seeking sun, sea, and city breaks. This alignment between destination selection and customer preference has been a key factor in the airline’s success.
Quick Facts
- Founded: Originated in 1971 (as cargo operation); Jet2 brand established 2002
- First Flight: February 12, 2003 (Leeds Bradford to Amsterdam)
- Headquarters: Low Fare Finder House, Leeds Bradford Airport, Leeds, LS19 7TU, UK
- Parent Company: Jet2 plc (formerly Dart Group)
- CEO: Steve Heapy
- Non-Executive Chairman: Robin Terrell (since September 2023)
- IATA Code: LS
- ICAO Code: EXS
- Call Sign: “Channex” (retained from Channel Express days)
- Fleet Size: Over 100 aircraft
- Annual Passengers: Over 14 million (pre-pandemic)
- Employees: Over 1,500 in Yorkshire alone
- Market Position: UK’s third-largest airline and largest tour operator
- Brands: Jet2.com (airline), Jet2holidays (package holidays), Jet2CityBreaks, Jet2Villas, Indulgent Escapes
Contact Information
For customers needing to reach Jet2, several contact options are available:
General Customer Service:
- Phone: +44 333 300 0737
Pre-Travel Services:
- Phone: +44 800 408 5591
Special Assistance:
- Phone: +44 333 300 0042
Emergency Hotline:
- Phone: +44 113 387 9501
Business & Brand Partnerships:
- Email: brand.partnerships@jet2.com
Customer Service Email:
Privacy & Data Protection:
- Email: privacy@jet2.com
Press Office (Media Inquiries Only):
- Phone: 0113 243 1355
- Email: PressOffice@jet2.com
The airline and tour operator also maintains an active presence on social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube, where customers can receive updates and contact representatives.
Future Outlook
Jet2’s future strategy centers around fleet modernization, network expansion, and strengthening its position as the UK’s leading tour operator.
The significant order of Airbus A321neo aircraft represents the cornerstone of Jet2’s fleet renewal plans. With 110 firm orders and options for more, these next-generation aircraft will gradually replace older Boeing models, improving fuel efficiency and reducing operating costs. The airline has already begun taking delivery of these aircraft, with further arrivals scheduled in the coming years.
In terms of network expansion, Jet2 has continued to add new bases, with Liverpool John Lennon Airport added in 2023, and both Bournemouth Airport and London Luton Airport scheduled to begin operations in 2025. These new bases will further extend the airline’s reach across the UK, allowing it to capture additional market share and offer more convenient departure options to customers across the country.
The synergy between Jet2.com (the airline) and Jet2holidays (the tour operator) remains a key strength and focus for the future. The end-to-end package holiday has proven resilient even during economic downturns, with the company describing it as “higher yielding” and “resilient.” The ability to control and match seat supply against resort capacity gives Jet2 an advantage over standalone tour operators who must block-book seats with partner airlines.
Sustainability is also becoming increasingly important in Jet2’s future plans. The airline has made investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), putting funds into a production plant constructed by Fulcrum BioEnergy Ltd. The transition to more fuel-efficient aircraft like the A321neo also forms part of the company’s environmental strategy.
As the aviation and travel industries continue to evolve, Jet2’s well-established brand identity, focus on customer service, and integrated business model position it strongly for continued growth and success in the competitive European leisure travel market.
Keyword: TopAirlines