Jet2 Scales Back Bournemouth Expansion, Cancels Six Summer 2026 Routes

Jet2 has announced the cancellation of six planned flight routes from Bournemouth Airport for summer 2026, just months after it began operations from the South Coast hub.

The airline and package holiday provider had intended to expand its Bournemouth operations next year, including the addition of a third based aircraft and new services to a range of European destinations. However, following a strategic review, Jet2 confirmed it will no longer operate routes to Malaga, Dubrovnik, Jersey, Reus, and Verona.

Customers affected by the changes will be contacted directly and offered full refunds, the company said.

Jet2 launched its Bournemouth base in February 2025, marking its arrival with two stationed aircraft and an initial roster of 16 routes to popular holiday destinations in Greece, Portugal, Turkey, and Spain. Plans announced later included a further expansion in 2026, featuring additional flights and destinations such as Kos and Jersey.

In a statement, a Jet2 spokesperson said: “As a successful business, we are continually reviewing our flying programme and will adjust where required. This gives us the ability to add flights and holidays in response to demand, and very occasionally we may withdraw flights too.”

The airline stressed that a “fantastic programme” of flights remained available from Bournemouth for summer 2026, despite the withdrawal of the six services.

The decision is a blow to Bournemouth Airport, which had hoped Jet2’s growth would enhance its standing as a regional hub. The airport has seen renewed interest from airlines in recent years, with passengers drawn by its accessibility and growing list of short-haul destinations.

Jet2 did not disclose the reasons for the route cancellations, but industry analysts suggest shifting customer demand, aircraft allocation priorities, and operational cost considerations may have played a role.