EasyJet launches Jordan route

EasyJet made its inaugural flight to the Jordanian capital of Amman yesterday, marking the UK low cost carrier's longest ever scheduled route.

EasyJet will operate three weekly services to Amman from London Gatwick, departing on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Carolyn McCall, easyJet CEO said: “This new route between London and Amman is a great example of us making it easy and affordable for people to visit great destinations. Jordan has a rich history and diverse range of attractions. With easyJet having one of the best European networks, we hope to be able to connect Amman with other destinations from across our network in the future.”

Airport International Group’s CEO, Curtis Grad, said: “The introduction of easyJet to the Jordan market will further propel Amman’s phenomenal growth, which has witnessed a 40% rise in passengers and a 65% growth in weekly flights over the past three years, ranking Amman as one of the fastest growing airports in the region. With our new terminal coming online in 2012, we will be well positioned to serve the new demand stimulated by easyJet, further sustaining this strong growth trend.”

Jordan's tourism board has issued a release to reassure travellers, stating that the tourism sector is keeping a close eye on regional political developments and stressing the Kingdom’s long and credible history of being “an oasis of stability” despite a “turbulent” region. Consequently the new service is seen as a positive development for Jordan as it markets itself as an oasis amid all of the recent upheaval in various parts of the Middle East.

Above: The inaugural easyJet flight arrives in Amman and receives the traditional welcome from the airport's fire tenders. Copyright: Merchant Cantos.