Low-cost carrier, easyJet, has announced plans for a combination of fleet upgrades and network expansion. This includes upgraded aircraft seating and the opening of a base at Newcastle International Airport (NCL).
Fleet upgrades for next generation aircraft
The airline confirmed it will introduce new lightweight seats on its incoming Airbus A320neo family, with deliveries expected from 2028. The seats will be installed across 237 Airbus A320neo and A321neo planes and are designed to provide up to two inches of additional legroom without reducing overall capacity.
Mirus Aircraft seating, a Norfolk-based manufacturer, will provide these new ‘Kestral’ seats which are also expected to be more than 20% lighter than current models. This could contribute to lower fuel use and reduced emissions over time, increasing the budget airline’s sustainability.
Newcastle base opens with local flavour
At the same time, easyJet has opened a new operational base at Newcastle International Airport after the announcement last May, marking further expansion of its UK network.
The base will initially house three aircraft and is expected to support around 1,200 jobs including roles for pilots and cabin crew. The airline plans to operate as many as 86 flights a week to destinations across Europe and North Africa, increasing its presence in the region. To mark the airline’s 11th base in the UK, easyJet teamed up with local catering giant, Greggs, which will be offering free sausage rolls from a cabin trolley in Newcastle city centre until March 25.
Changes for the long-term
In the meantime, the new base at Newcastle brings more immediate changes, with extra flights and destinations already being added. This gives passengers in the north of England more options now, while the longer-term updates to the fleet will continue to develop over the next few years.
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