Published on
December 10, 2025
Austria joins Spain, Italy, Greece, Ireland, Tunisia, Poland, and more as SunExpress and Jet2 expand their travel offerings from East Midlands Airport in 2026, providing passengers with an exciting selection of 45 new direct routes across Europe and beyond. This expanded route network includes a mix of popular destinations and emerging travel spots, reflecting the growing demand for European and Mediterranean holidays. With new destinations like Antalya, Chania, and Agadir added to the roster, travelers can look forward to enhanced connectivity and more options for their vacations, making East Midlands a key gateway for international travel in 2026.
East Midlands Airport (EMA) is gearing up for a remarkable year in 2026 with an exciting lineup of 45 direct routes to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations. The upcoming programme will see a mix of well-established holiday spots and new travel opportunities, offering passengers an expansive range of options for their 2026 vacations. With airlines like SunExpress and Jet2 playing a key role in this growth, EMA is set to further strengthen its position as a major hub for European travel.
SunExpress Expands with New Route to Antalya, Turkey
A major highlight of East Midlands Airport’s 2026 programme is the introduction of SunExpress, a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines. This exciting partnership will see the airline commence flights from EMA to Antalya, a top holiday destination in Turkey, starting from next Easter. SunExpress will operate up to three flights per week to Antalya, offering passengers the convenience of direct flights to this vibrant coastal city through to October.
Booking for SunExpress flights to Antalya is already open, and with the airline’s continued growth in Germany, it will soon serve 14 airports across the UK and Ireland, providing even greater connectivity for British travelers. The Turkish airline’s debut at East Midlands marks a significant step in diversifying the airport’s flight offerings and adds to the growing popularity of destinations in Turkey.
Jet2 Expands with New Destinations Across Central Europe and Northern Africa
Jet2, another key player at East Midlands, is continuing to broaden its reach by adding five exciting new routes to its 2026 summer schedule. The airline will be offering travelers direct flights to the following destinations:
- Preveza (Greece): A picturesque town located on the Ionian coast, known for its stunning beaches and charming old town.
- Thessaloniki (Greece): The vibrant second city of Greece, famous for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and lively cultural scene.
- Chania (Greece): Located on the island of Crete, this beautiful destination is known for its stunning Venetian harbor and scenic landscapes.
- Pula (Croatia): A coastal city in the Istria region, offering rich Roman history, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
- Agadir (Morocco): A popular destination for beach lovers and surfers, this Moroccan city offers a blend of relaxing resorts and vibrant culture.
These new additions reflect Jet2’s commitment to providing travelers with even more options for their vacations. Additionally, the airline will be expanding its services to Jersey, providing Saturday flights throughout the summer season to the Channel Islands, a destination that has seen an increase in demand following the collapse of Blue Islands.
TUI Brings Back Popular Sharm El Sheikh and Expands with Cape Verde
TUI, one of the most well-known travel operators in Europe, is reintroducing its popular route to Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt for the 2026 season. The flights, which will operate twice a week starting next Easter, are a response to strong customer demand, as the Red Sea destination continues to attract sun-seeking tourists with its world-class diving spots and luxury resorts.
Additionally, TUI has expanded its reach by introducing Boa Vista in Cape Verde as a new destination. This winter, the island will be available for travel again, with flights scheduled to operate throughout the 2026 season. Known for its sandy beaches and clear waters, Boa Vista is a paradise for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil vacation.
45 Direct Routes to Popular European and Mediterranean Destinations
East Midlands Airport’s new flight programme for 2026 covers a wide variety of destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. Travelers will be able to explore some of the most popular holiday spots, with direct flights to both iconic cities and hidden gems. Here’s a full breakdown of the 45 direct routes available for 2026:
Spain
- Lanzarote: Known for its volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches.
- Malaga: A vibrant city on the Costa del Sol with stunning beaches and rich culture.
- Alicante: Famous for its Mediterranean beaches and nightlife.
- Barcelona: Spain’s cultural hub, known for its architecture and art.
- Ibiza: The party capital of the Mediterranean.
- Fuerteventura: Ideal for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Gran Canaria: One of the Canary Islands, offering stunning beaches and natural landscapes.
- Menorca: A quieter alternative to Mallorca, known for its beautiful coves and relaxing atmosphere.
- Palma de Mallorca: The capital of the Balearic Islands, known for its historic architecture and beaches.
- Reus: A gateway to the Costa Dorada, offering a mix of history, culture, and beaches.
- Tenerife-Reinasofia: Another Canary Island gem, famous for its volcanic landscapes and scenic views.
- Valencia: A lively Mediterranean city with futuristic architecture and beautiful beaches.
- Zakynthos Island: A Greek island with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Turkey
- Izmir: The gateway to Turkey’s Aegean region, known for its ancient ruins and coastal beauty.
- Antalya: A popular resort city with beautiful beaches and a rich history.
- Bodrum: Famous for its ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.
- Dalaman: A popular gateway for those visiting Turkey’s southwestern resorts.
Greece
- Kerkyra: The main island of the Ionian Islands, known for its Venetian architecture.
- Chania: A scenic town on the island of Crete, with a Venetian harbor and stunning landscapes.
- Kefalonia: A picturesque island with beautiful beaches and charming villages.
- Skiathos: Famous for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Kos: An island rich in history and beautiful beaches.
- Irakleion: The capital of Crete, offering a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
- Rhodes: A beautiful island known for its medieval old town and beaches.
- Preveza: A charming coastal town on the Ionian Sea.
Other Mediterranean & Europe
- Carcassonne (France): A fortified medieval town.
- Geneva (Switzerland): Known for its stunning lakeside views and international atmosphere.
- Budapest (Hungary): A city rich in history, thermal baths, and stunning architecture.
- Vienna (Austria): A city steeped in classical music, art, and imperial history.
- Prague (Czech Republic): Famous for its fairytale architecture and rich cultural history.
- Berlin (Germany): A cultural capital known for its historical landmarks and vibrant arts scene.
North Africa & Middle East
- Agadir (Morocco): A beach resort city known for its sunny weather and laid-back atmosphere.
- Hurghada (Egypt): A popular diving destination along the Red Sea.
- Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt): A luxury beach resort town with stunning coral reefs.
Other Notable Destinations
- Enfidha (Tunisia): A coastal city offering sandy beaches and rich history.
- Boa Vista Island (Cape Verde): Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
- Sal Island (Cape Verde): Famous for its beautiful beaches and water sports.
Key Takeaways for 2026 Travel from East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport’s 2026 route network promises a diverse selection of destinations for every type of traveler. From the Mediterranean beaches of Spain and Greece to the cultural cities of Eastern Europe and North Africa, there’s a new adventure waiting for everyone. SunExpress and Jet2’s expansion signals a new era for the airport, offering more direct connections than ever before to some of the most beloved destinations in Europe and beyond.
Austria joins Spain, Italy, Greece, Ireland, Tunisia, Poland, and more as SunExpress and Jet2 expand their European travel offerings from East Midlands Airport in 2026, with 45 new direct routes to popular destinations. This growth reflects the rising demand for convenient access to sought-after European and Mediterranean locations.
With SunExpress bringing Turkish charm to East Midlands for the first time, and Jet2 adding five exciting new routes to Central Europe and North Africa, the airport is clearly positioning itself as a gateway to some of the world’s most sought-after travel spots. Whether travelers are looking for a sunny escape in the Mediterranean, a cultural city break, or a tranquil retreat on the beach, East Midlands Airport is offering a comprehensive range of options for 2026.
