Wizz Air Launches First Direct Flight from Gatwick to Medina!
By Mr Plane Guy, Travel Blogger and Flight Expert
Wizz Air UK is making history by launching the first-ever direct flight between London Gatwick and Medina, Saudi Arabia! Starting August 1st, this exciting new route will connect even more travellers to one of the world’s most culturally rich and historic cities.
This marks Wizz Air’s second UK route using the impressive long-range Airbus A321XLR, a plane designed for greater efficiency and comfort. With this expansion, Medina’s Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport is set to welcome hundreds of thousands of new visitors each year.
A Game Changer for Travel
Marion Geoffroy, Managing Director of Wizz Air UK, expressed her enthusiasm about the launch, stating,
“We are delighted to announce this new route from London Gatwick to Medina. It’s an important milestone for Wizz Air as we continue expanding our network beyond Europe. Our goal is to make travel as accessible as possible, and this direct route offers an affordable way to visit a city full of history and culture.”
Wizz Air is rolling out more than 174,000 seats per year on this route, making Medina widely recognised for its religious significance, easier to reach than ever before. Tickets are now available on wizzair.com and via the Wizz Air mobile app, with fares starting at just £233.99.
Expanding Wizz Air’s Middle East Network
The introduction of this route is part of Wizz Air’s ambitious expansion across the Middle East. The airline already operates nearly 100 routes in the region and has a strong presence in Abu Dhabi. With the new Airbus A321XLR, Wizz Air is set to push further into key markets, ensuring travellers have more affordable options to explore the world.
Stephanie Wear, VP of Aviation Development at London Gatwick, highlighted the significance of the new route, saying,
“Medina is a brand-new destination from London Gatwick, giving travelers even more choice when flying to Saudi Arabia. As Medina is considered the second holiest city in Islamic tradition, this new route will be especially valuable for those traveling for religious pilgrimages.”
Wizz Air’s expansion into Medina aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which focuses on boosting tourism and economic growth. Majid Khan, CEO of the Air Connectivity Program, emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating that the new routes aim to strengthen tourism from the UK while allowing visitors to experience Medina’s rich history and strategic location.
Similarly, Eng. Sofiene Abdessalem, CEO of Tibah Airports Operation Co., welcomed the new flights, noting that they support Medina Airport’s goal of becoming a leading regional travel hub. The timing couldn’t be better as Wizz Air prepares for the delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, set to make its inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Jeddah on March 31st.
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Wizz Air Baggage: What You Need to Know
If you’re flying with Wizz Air, understanding their baggage policy can help you avoid unexpected fees and pack more efficiently. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know:
Wizz Air Free Carry-On Bag
Size: 40 x 30 x 20 cm (including handles and wheels) Weight: Up to 10 kg Cost: Free with every ticket
Finding the perfect bag that meets Wizz Air's strict requirements while being practical for your journey is crucial. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Cabin Max METZ 20L Underseat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
You can find more information about this bag Right Here
The Cabin Max METZ 20L is my go-to under seat bag for Ryanair flights. It’s perfectly sized for Wizz Air's free personal item allowance and comes packed with features:
Lightweight and Durable:Weighs only 500g, making it easy to carry around even when fully packed.
Comfortable for Travel: Extensive padding ensures comfort, whether you’re navigating airports or exploring your destination.
Organised Storage: Multiple compartments, including a front organiser pocket for travel documents, pens, and tickets, make staying organised a breeze.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled plastic bottles (Rpet polyester), it’s a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travellers.
This bag is also compatible with most major airlines, making it a versatile travel companion beyond Wizz Air.
it comes in so many different colour options
WIZZ Priority & Trolley Bags
If you need more than just a small carry-on, WIZZ Priority is a great add-on. It allows you to bring: One free carry-on bag PLUS a trolley bag (55 x 40 x 23 cm, max 10 kg) Priority boarding (so you get first dibs on overhead space)
Cabin Max Anode 40L Cabin Suitcase: If you’ve purchased WIZZ Priority, this trolley bag is a great choice. It’s lightweight, has 360-degree spinning wheels, and offers plenty of room for a short trip.
I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for around a year and its the perfect fit for Wizz Air, especially if you pay extra for Wizz Priority.
For those who need more space, the Cabin Max Anode 40L is a fantastic option.
Spacious and Lightweight: Perfect for trips up to 7 days, with enough room for clothing, toiletries, and extras.
Durable and Stylish: Available in various colours, so you can travel in style.
Convenient for Wizz Air Priority: No worries about your bag arriving separately, as you can keep it with you.
It comes in so many colours!!
Checked Baggage Options
If you’re travelling for longer and need a larger suitcase, Wizz Air offers several options: 10 kg Checked Bag – Light packers rejoice!
20 kg Standard Bag – A good middle-ground for most travellers.
26 kg & 32 kg Bags – For those who pack heavy or are traveling for an extended period.
Travel Tip: It’s always cheaper to add baggage when booking your flight rather than at the airport!
Packing Tips for Wizz Air
Invest in the Right Bag: Lightweight and compact bags like the Cabin Max Metz ensure you meet Wizz Air’s size requirements.
Wear Bulky Items: Save space by wearing jackets, boots, or other heavy clothing during boarding.
Use Packing Cubes: These help you stay organized and maximize space.
Essentials in Carry-On: Always pack essentials like toiletries, electronics, and travel documents in your cabin bag.
Packing cubes to keep everything organised. If you have items spilling out of your luggage you are more likely to be asked to place your luggage in the sizer for checking by the gate staff!
Wizz Air Check-In: What You Need to Know
Wizz Air offers several options for check-in:
Online Check-In: Free and available up to 30 days before your flight if you’ve selected a seat or 48 hours before if you haven’t.
Airport Check-In: Available for an additional fee. This option can be convenient but is more expensive than online check-in.
Top Tip: Use the Wizz Air app to streamline your check-in process and access your boarding pass directly from your smartphone.
Wizz Air Baggage Fees and Costs
Wizz Air Baggage Fees
Fees vary based on route, season, and when you purchase baggage. It’s typically cheaper to add baggage during booking.
Avoiding Extra Fees
Ensure your bag meets size and weight limits.
Weigh your bags at home to avoid surprises at the airport.
FAQs: Wizz Air Baggage Policies
Can I bring a laptop bag and a carry-on bag on Wizz Air?
No, unless you’ve purchased WIZZ Priority. Without it, only one free carry-on bag is allowed.
What can I pack in my carry-on bag on Wizz Air?
You can include liquids (up to 100 ml per container), electronics, documents, and other essentials. Everything must fit within the size and weight limits.
How much does it cost to check a bag on Wizz Air?
Fees vary, but adding a bag during booking is the most cost-effective option. Prices increase if purchased later or at the airport.
cancellation, be sure to check Wizz Air's flight delay and cancellations blog for guidance on rebooking, refunds, and compensation.
What are my rights if I am delayed or my Wizz Air flight is cancelled? Check out this delay guide
By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth travel experience without any last-minute baggage fees!
Understanding Wizz Air’s baggage policies can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re travelling light with a free carry-on bag or need the extra space of a checked-in bag, planning ahead ensures a smoother journey.
Excited about the new Gatwick-Medina route? Let me know in the comments if you’ll be booking a ticket!
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Hello I’m Paul a travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
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