Passengers flying from Southend Airport can now book a magical festive escape, as easyJet has announced direct flights to Rovaniemi in Finland, the “enchanting gateway to Lapland”.
Starting December 1, 2025, flights will run every Monday and Friday, making it a great opportunity for families seeking an unforgettable Christmas adventure. The seasonal flights will run for six weeks.
A spokesperson for London Southend Airport welcomed the news, saying: “Another new route with our friends at easyJet this winter season for holidays to visit Santa Claus in Lapland! Flights every Monday and Friday throughout the Christmas period – starting December 1, 2025. This latest addition to our operation takes us to 25 destinations across Europe and North Africa (including our domestic service to Newquay, Cornwall and package holiday with Santa’s Lapland).”
Rovaniemi, known as Santa Claus’s official hometown, offers visitors unique experiences such as exploring Santa Claus Village, crossing the Arctic Circle, and posting Christmas cards from Santa’s personal post office.
Travellers can also enjoy thrilling Arctic activities, from reindeer sleigh rides and husky sledding to snowmobile safaris and spectacular Northern Lights excursions. Cosy log cabins and warm drinks around the fire complete the magical experience.
People across Southend and Essex have welcomed the latest route but continue to call for even more travel options from Southend Airport.
Top requests for flights include Jersey, Murcia, Edinburgh, Ireland, Krakow, Glasgow, Denmark, and Corfu.
The launch of the Rovaniemi route brings Southend Airport’s total destination count to 25, which already includes popular European spots such as Turkey, Morocco, Italy, and Spain.
Recent figures from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have revealed a remarkable 106% increase in passengers from January to April 2025, making Southend the fastest-growing airport in the UK.
Much of this impressive growth is driven by easyJet’s recent establishment of a three-aircraft base at the airport, combined with numerous new routes introduced throughout the year.
Airport CEO Jude Winstanley proudly commented on the development: “The CAA figures confirm what we predicted in June—2025 is set to be a landmark year for London Southend. What’s even more exciting is that we’re achieving this growth while maintaining our reputation as London’s easiest, fastest, and friendliest airport.”
Southend’s growing appeal is partly due to its excellent location and convenience, providing rapid transport connections to central London via Liverpool Street Station in approximately 50 minutes.
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