A new air link between Belfast and London is set to launch this autumn. From 25 October 2026, easyJet is due to operate flights between Belfast City Airport and London Southend. For travellers looking to combine Northern Ireland’s capital with a stay in Britain, the route offers another option when planning an itinerary. But it is worth looking beyond the name on the ticket: Southend has its own geography, and getting into London is part of the journey.
Three weekly flights announced for the winter season
Launch scheduled for Sunday 25 October
According to a press release issued by Belfast City Airport on 6 May 2026, flights are scheduled to operate on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays. The airport’s official timetable still lists 25 October as the start date for the service. At the time of writing, the launch is therefore still to come: this is not yet an established route.
These three operating days offer several ways to plan a short break. Departing on Friday and returning on Monday could suit a long weekend, while a Sunday flight may work well for a weekday stay. The best combination will nevertheless depend on the flight times actually available to book and the time needed for transfers.
Belfast City: choosing the right airport
The route serves Belfast City Airport, not Belfast International. This distinction is worth keeping in mind at every stage, from searching for flights to booking ground transport. If your itinerary includes several tickets, check the departure and arrival airports before booking your hotel nights.
For exploring Belfast, the benefit is having an additional option rather than necessarily reshaping your entire itinerary. A route may work well for one traveller and be less relevant for another, depending on the area where they are staying and what comes next on their journey.
London Southend: the transfer into London matters too
A station close to the terminal
Southend is in Essex. Its airport has a railway station a short walk from the terminal: the official website gives a journey time of around 52 minutes by train to London Liverpool Street and 43 minutes to Stratford. These times cover the rail journey only; you will also need to allow for leaving the airport, waiting for the train and travelling on to your final address.
Liverpool Street and Stratford both connect with London’s transport network. When planning a stay, it is therefore best to start with your chosen accommodation: arriving in east London can make for a very different journey from staying at the other end of the capital.
Compare the complete journey before booking
The flight price alone is not enough to assess the value of this new option. Add the train fare, any local transport and the luggage you need, then compare the total travel time. Check rail timetables for your travel date, particularly if arriving late or if engineering works are taking place on the network.
The May press release mentioned a launch fare. That earlier amount is not presented as a currently available price: the actual cost should be checked through easyJet booking, for the dates and services selected. If you are combining separate tickets, also allow sufficient time between journeys.
Information checked on 12 October 2026: Belfast City Airport announcement of 6 May 2026, the airport’s official route network and London Southend Airport rail information. Check timetables and fares before booking.
