easyJet flies into Moscow

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easyJet has today launched its 100th route from Gatwick with its inaugural flight to Moscow.

The airline will fly to the Russian capital daily from today, increasing to twice a day from April 15 with the four-hour flights departing London at 7am and 2pm.

The flights are the first time Gatwick airport has hosted a Moscow-bound flight and easyJet will have another first later this month when flights from Manchester to Russia take off on March 28.

The good news for the airline continues with it being listed today on the FTSE 100 – the top 100 companies on the London Stock Exchange – for the first time.

Airline boss Carolyn McCall said today: “This is a historic day for easyJet, not only are we launching flights between London Gatwick and Moscow but it is also the first day our shares are traded on the FTSE 100.

“Moscow is a landmark route and one we are delighted to be able to serve. Russia is the world’s largest country with a growing economy. Offering frequent and affordable flights enables easyJet to play a key role to aid trade links between the two countries.

“We offer low fares and a friendly service and we are on our way to being Europe’s favourite airline. Bookings to Moscow have already exceeded our expectations and what has surprised us is the number of Russians who want to come to London. We look forward to flying hundreds of thousands of passengers in the coming months and years.

“I am pleased to have around a dozen UK companies travelling with us on today’s inaugural flight, aiming to start to build relationships in Russia. These companies are spread across Britain and represent many sectors including food, technology and manufacturing.”

The evocative Russian capital – with its iconic sights such as the Kremlin, Lenin’s Tomb and St Basil’s Cathedral – promises to be a high flyer for easyJet for both holidaymakers and business visitors. The airline fought off stiff competition for the route from Virgin Atlantic.

One-way flights to Moscow will start from £47.49, while easyJet’s sister company easyJet Holidays will offer package holidays, including hotels, flights and transfers. Two nights’ B&B in a four-star hotel, including flights in April is from £360 per person.

Click here to book with EasyJet Holidays

Both Trisha and James are in Moscow today on easyJet’s inaugural flight and will be reporting back throughout the trip. See our blog for more