About the London → Palma de Mallorca route
London Gatwick to Palma de Mallorca is about as pure a leisure route as European aviation gets. At 1,310 km and roughly 1h 32m in the air, it's the kind of flight where you've barely finished your coffee before the crew's collecting cups. easyJet (U2) dominates here, which tells you everything about who's flying it: families, couples, and the occasional stag party who definitely pre-booked extra legroom. British Airways and Jet2 (LS) also run the route, giving you a spectrum from no-frills to slightly-more-frills. Don't expect lie-flat beds or airport lounges to matter much on this one.
Why travel from London to Palma de Mallorca?
Mallorca earns its popularity the honest way. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range in the northwest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and genuinely stunning — hikers and cyclists treat it as a serious destination, not just scenery from a sun lounger. Palma itself has one of the better old towns in the Mediterranean, with the cathedral La Seu sitting right on the waterfront in a way that still catches you off guard. The food scene has improved dramatically, particularly around Santa Catalina neighbourhood. For UK travellers specifically, there are deep family connections — British expat communities have lived here for decades, meaning plenty of people are flying to visit relatives rather than resorts. And the water is cleaner than most of southern England's coastline, which shouldn't need saying but apparently does.
Quick stats
- Distance: 1,310 km
- Estimated flight time: 1h 32m
- Operating airlines: BA, LS, U2
- Direct route: yes
Practical tips for LGW → PMI
May, June, and September hit the sweet spot — warm enough for the beach, cheaper than August, and PMI arrivals aren't a wall of delayed charters. August fares on U2 and LS climb significantly, and the airport gets genuinely chaotic. PMI is compact and reasonably well-signed; baggage reclaim is the usual wait. Bus line 1 runs directly into Palma city centre for a few euros — don't bother with taxis unless you're splitting the cost. Spain uses euros, Spanish is spoken, and UK passport holders currently need no visa. If you're flying easyJet, check your bag allowance twice before you pack — their cabin bag sizing rules are enforced more rigorously than most people expect.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from London Gatwick to Palma de Mallorca?
The flight typically takes approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes to cover the 1,310 km distance. This makes it a short-haul European flight with minimal time zone difference.
Which airlines operate the London Gatwick to Palma de Mallorca route?
Three airlines serve this route: British Airways (BA), Lufthansa (LS), and easyJet (U2). Flight frequency and schedules vary by season, so check directly with carriers for current offerings.
What is the best time of year to fly from London to Palma de Mallorca?
May to June and September to October offer the ideal balance of pleasant Mediterranean weather and lower fares compared to peak summer season. These shoulder seasons provide warm temperatures without the crowds and premium pricing of July and August.
Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Spain?
UK citizens do not need a visa for Spain and can travel with a valid British passport for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date.
What should I know about luggage and jet lag on this route?
Luggage allowances vary by airline—budget carriers like easyJet typically charge for checked baggage, while full-service carriers often include it. Jet lag is minimal since Spain is only one hour ahead of the UK, so most passengers adjust quickly.