Jet2 has announced a major 'first' for the airline, delivering a significant boost to British holidaymakers. The inaugural flight to the Greek island of Samos departed from Manchester Airport on Friday, marking the start of a brand-new route for summer 2026.
New Greek Route Details
The airline revealed that it will now offer flights and holidays to Samos, a destination renowned for its golden beaches and lush, mountainous landscapes. Located just off the coast of Turkey, Samos is ideal for holidaymakers seeking a beautiful Greek island experience.
Jet2 will operate twice-weekly services on Tuesdays and Fridays until the end of October. Following the Manchester launch, flights from Birmingham Airport will commence on May 4, and services from London Stansted Airport will begin on May 7.
From Birmingham, weekly Monday services will run until October 26. Meanwhile, Stansted will offer twice-weekly flights on Mondays and Thursdays until October 29.
CEO Comments
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “As we commence our biggest ever summer programme to Greece, we are pleased to see our first flight to Samos take off from Manchester Airport for Summer 2026. We are already looking forward to seeing our first flights depart from two additional UK airport bases, offering customers and independent travel agents fantastic choice and flexibility when it comes to enjoying a sun-kissed holiday. Samos is a fantastic addition to our portfolio, and since putting these new flights and holidays on sale they have been proven very popular with holidaymakers looking for a laid-back Greek island experience.”
EU Border Checks Context
This announcement follows news that Italy and Portugal may follow Greece in ditching EU border checks at airports. British holidaymakers have faced delays due to the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires fingerprinting and photographing for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area.
Last month, over 100 easyJet passengers missed a flight from Milan Linate to Manchester due to passport desk delays. Greece has already suspended the new rules for UK holidaymakers until September after significant queues. Portugal is reportedly waving passengers through when queues grow large, and Italy is expected to adopt a similar approach ahead of the May half-term. Other countries like Spain, France, and Croatia may follow suit.
