Jet2 has made a significant announcement, marking a notable milestone for the airline and providing a great opportunity for British travelers. The airline recently launched its first flight to the beautiful Greek island of Samos from Manchester Airport. This inaugural flight signifies the beginning of a new Greek route for the summer of 2026.
According to Jet2, flights and holiday packages to Samos are now available for booking, offering holidaymakers a chance to explore the stunning island known for its golden beaches and picturesque mountainous landscapes. The island, located near the coast of Turkey, is a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil Greek island experience.
Jet2 will be operating flights to Samos twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays until the end of October. Following the Manchester service, flights from Birmingham Airport to Samos will commence on May 4, with another service from London Stansted Airport starting on May 7. Weekly Monday services from Birmingham and twice-weekly services from Stansted will also be available until late October, as reported by BirminghamLive.
Steve Heapy, the CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, expressed excitement about the launch, stating that the first flight to Samos from Manchester Airport for Summer 2026 marks the beginning of their largest summer program to Greece. He mentioned that the addition of Samos to their portfolio has been well-received by travelers seeking a laid-back Greek island experience.
In related news, there are reports indicating that Italy and Portugal may follow Greece’s lead in eliminating EU border checks at airports. This development comes after British holidaymakers experienced delays at European airports due to the implementation of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which involves fingerprint registration and photographing of individuals from non-EU countries like the UK entering the Schengen Area.
Portugal’s airports have reportedly begun allowing passengers to proceed without delays if queues become too long. Italy is expected to adopt a similar approach to Greece, allowing entry based on a passport stamp as the May half-term approaches. Other countries such as Spain, France, and Croatia may also consider implementing similar measures.