The Gambia Experience has appointed Jet2 as the carrier for its direct charter flights between London Gatwick and Banjul for the 2026/27 winter sun season. The programme runs from 3 November 2026 to 27 April 2027, with departures scheduled twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, plus additional Monday services during the festive peak.
Jet2, which has been a Which? Recommended Provider for 11 consecutive years, was selected for its track record in customer service and operational reliability. Karen Durham, Product Manager at The Gambia Experience, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Jet2 for our charter flight programme from Gatwick. Their strong reputation for customer service and operational reliability makes them an excellent fit for us.”
Onboard inclusions and premium option
The standard fare includes pre-allocated seating, a complimentary hot meal, and a checked baggage allowance of at least 20kg. For travellers seeking extra comfort, an Economy Plus option adds benefits such as airport lounge access and additional legroom. All package holidays are ATOL protected, providing financial security for customers.
The Gambia Experience continues to offer regional connectivity through TUI Airways, with departures from Manchester and Birmingham. To bridge the gap before the main winter season, Polish carrier Enter Air will operate an interim service from 9 October to 30 October 2026.
With more than 38 years of specialisation in The Gambia, the operator provides tailor-made holidays and multi-centre itineraries that combine the country with neighbouring Senegal. The company highlights its local expertise and on-the-ground support for travellers visiting what it calls “The Smiling Coast of Africa.”
The move comes as UK tour operators increasingly look to secure reliable charter capacity for long-haul winter sun destinations. Jet2’s expansion into the Gambia market follows its broader growth in leisure routes across Europe and North Africa. For travel agents, the new Gatwick service adds a premium option for clients seeking a direct link to West Africa, complementing existing TUI flights from regional airports.
The Gambia’s tourism board has been actively promoting the destination to UK travellers, and the enhanced airlift is expected to support visitor numbers during the peak winter months. The twice-weekly frequency, with an extra festive service, provides flexibility for both holidaymakers and those visiting family in the region.
Industry observers note that the partnership underscores a trend of specialist operators aligning with carriers known for high service standards, particularly as competition intensifies on leisure routes. Jet2’s reputation, built on consistent customer satisfaction, is likely to appeal to the operator’s core demographic of experienced travellers seeking reliability.
For agents, the ATOL protection and inclusive baggage allowance simplify selling, while the Economy Plus upgrade offers a revenue opportunity. The interim Enter Air service also ensures early-season demand is met, avoiding gaps in availability.
As the winter 2026/27 season approaches, The Gambia Experience is expected to release further details on fares and package inclusions. The operator’s long-standing presence in the market, combined with Jet2’s operational strength, positions the route for a strong performance.
