Heathrow announces three new airline entrants and two new routes ahead of the winter travel season
The new routes strengthen Heathrow’s status as most connected airport in the world, now awarded to the UK’s hub for the last three consecutive years
As the winter season approaches, passengers flying from Heathrow have even more opportunity to explore different destinations with two new routes and three new airlines ready to take off from the UK’s hub airport.
For passengers chasing the winter sun, Virgin Atlantic will be flying direct to Cancun, offering easy access to Mexico’s powdery white beaches and turquoise waters, while Saudia is launching flights to Dammam, for those seeking cultural charm and heritage. Whether it’s the Caribbean or the Gulf, tickets are on sale now.
Three new airlines will join Heathrow’s global roster with Riyadh Air, IndiGo and Air Peace launching services to Riyadh, Mumbai and Abuja respectively. These exciting routes open up even more choice for passengers and business looking to connect with the world.
Heathrow’s Chief Customer Officer Ross Baker said: “Heathrow is already the most connected airport in the world, a huge competitive advantage for the UK, but we’re always on the lookout to expand our global connections. We’re proud to now offer direct flights to exciting destinations like Cancún and Dammam - giving passengers and British businesses even more opportunities to explore new corners of the world from Heathrow.”
Full list of new airlines and their routes being launched from October 26:
Riyadh – Riyadh Air: Looking for a blend of heritage and modern marvels? Riyadh offers passengers a dynamic mix of ancient culture and cutting-edge entertainment. From the dramatic cliffs of the Edge of the World to the dazzling Riyadh Season festival, the city has something to offer for everyone!
Mumbai – IndiGo: Mumbai, India’s ‘City of Dreams’, is a whirlwind of Bollywood glamour, historic architecture, and legendary street food. Whether you're exploring the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or catching a sunset at Marine Drive, Mumbai promises an unforgettable adventure.
Abuja – Air Peace: Looking for a serene escape with cultural depth? Abuja is known for striking natural landmarks like Aso Rock and tranquil spots like Jabi Lake. With its blend of modern architecture, beautiful parks, and an exciting art scene, Abuja offers a peaceful yet enriching experience for passengers.
Dammam – Saudia: Offering rich heritage and scenic waterfronts, passengers can enjoy walks along the Dammam Corniche, explore local art at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, or take a short drive to the stunning Half Moon Bay. For those wanting to unwind while discovering the charm of the Arabian Gulf, flights start from 6 November.
Cancun – Virgin Atlantic: A tropical escape and splash of adventure is what you’ll find at the gateway to Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Whether you're exploring ancient Mayan ruins, diving into cenotes, or unwinding at luxurious beachfront resorts, Cancun offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Pack your hiking boots and flip-flops, as flights start from 26 October.
New airlines and routes landing at Heathrow boost connections for passengers and businesses. As the UK’s hub airport, Heathrow plays a vital role in linking people, places, and opportunities across the globe. Even with limited capacity, our growing route network - the second-highest number of long-haul carriers of any European airport for the W25 season - demonstrates the strength of our operations and the dedication of our teams. These achievements underscore the need for expanded capacity to meet future demand and maintain the UK’s global competitiveness.
These new additions come as Heathrow celebrates being named the World’s Most Connected Airport for the third year running - a proud moment that highlights our role as the UK’s Gateway to Growth.
