Heathrow is launching a raft of new winter routes, with six long-haul destinations added to its schedule — including direct flights to Phuket, Melbourne and Costa Rica.
Virgin Atlantic launched a direct service to Phuket on October 18, operating three times weekly from Terminal 3. The new route responds to rising demand for long-haul leisure destinations in Asia and expands options for travellers.
British Airways will begin a daily service to Melbourne from January 9, departing from Terminal 5. The airline will also launch a route to Costa Rica on October 25, operating five times per week from Terminal 5.
British Airways will also launch a twice-weekly service to Fuerteventura from Terminal 5 starting December 13 — a winter-sun favourite for British holidaymakers.
Premium leisure airline beOnd will begin flights to the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Province this winter. The service will continue to the Maldives, offering all-premium seating in a no-economy cabin — a first for the airport.
Xiamen Airlines recently joined Heathrow’s network with three weekly flights to China from Terminal 4. It is currently the only airline offering this direct connection from the airport.
A Heathrow Airport spokesperson said: “Our latest route launches reinforce Heathrow’s position as Europe’s leading international hub and create exciting new travel opportunities worldwide.”
The new routes add to the number of long-haul destinations served by Heathrow, with flights catering to both business and leisure passengers.
For London travellers, the timing is ideal — winter sun options are expanding just as the season turns. Storm Austen is set to batter the UK on Friday, so the prospect of Phuket or Fuerteventura may feel more tempting than ever.
More choice on long-haul routes also means more competition — and potentially better fares for passengers booking winter getaways.
