London's calling, again: JetBlue launches service to Gatwick tonight for its second UK route

JetBlue launches its inaugural service to London's Gatwick airport tonight, seven weeks after the airline kicked off its long-awaited U.K. service to London's Heathrow airport.

The Gatwick launch comes under very different circumstances to the Heathrow inaugural, which JetBlue hopes will lead to strong demand on both routes.

Want more airline-specific news? Sign up for TPG's free new biweekly Aviation newsletter!

The U.K. has been open without quarantine to vaccinated American travelers for nearly two months, and the United States has announced plans to open to vaccinated visitors in November.

Even before launching the flights, JetBlue trimmed back its planned daily service to each airport due to COVID-related demand headwinds.

With both countries reopening, however, the airline hopes that there will be enough demand to drive solid load factors on both routes. The carrier also plans to launch service from Boston to both London airports next year.

As with the Heathrow flight, JetBlue plans to operate the Gatwick service using its Airbus A321LR fleet, equipped with the airline's top-of-the-line Mint Suites and Studios, comparable to what you can find on the airline's Mint-equipped A321neo fleet, just with a larger business class cabin.

In coach, or "Core," the airline will match the Heathrow service with its selection of customized meals created by New York-based restaurant group Dig.

TPG will be aboard the inaugural getting a first-hand look at the service in the back, so be sure to check back for more!

More: Newly minted: Reviewing JetBlue’s brand new business class from London to New York

JetBlue flight 43 from JFK to Gatwick is scheduled to depart at 7:48 p.m., arriving at 7:55 a.m., all times local.