On 1st May, a new flight is launched from London City Airport (LCY) direct to Vilnius (VNO) meaning it has never been easier to visit, Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital city. LOT Polish Airlines will offer up to 12 flights a week on this service and is the first to offer business class on a direct flight to the destination.
The new flight reflects increasing demand as Vilnius is a fast rising city-break destination, with growing popularity among British travellers. Last year (2018) alone the rise of the tourist numbers to Vilnius was 20%.Vilnius is quickly becoming a hotspot for gastronomic tourism.
The city drew attention last year for their much discussed tourism campaign referring to Vilnius as ‘the G-spot of Europe’. Robert Sinclair, CEO, London City Airport commented, “We are excited to make Vilnius even more accessible from London. European capital cities have a lot in common but we can celebrate our uniqueness, inspiring travellers to explore new places and return time and time again.” He went on to explain the G-spot of Europe campaign is similar to the philosophy of London City Airport, daring to be different, standing out and brave.
Vilnius Mayor Remigijus Simasius welcomed the new flight route commenting, “Vilnius is delighted to have another direct link to a likeminded capital and we look forward to welcome more UK guests to the city, hoping they discover all that we have in common, together with Vilnius’ unique identity. London City Airport is easily accessible, much like Vilnius airport, and our cities are both share a walkable, friendly ambience where history, culture, food and language combine to create a destination of distinction. London and Vilnius are closer than ever.”
In addition to the increased demand from leisure travellers, the new flight route LCY to VNO further enhances the destination’s appeal as a MICE and business travel destination.The UK is one of the main investors in the Baltics (according to FDI markets) and Lithuanian business have strong export relations with the UK. Vilnius has become a very important financial technology hub and London finance companies are outsourcing key elements of their businesses to be based in Lithuania. Therefore, this flight is vital for creating a convenient link between London’s financial centre and the emerging technology and economic hubs of Vilnius.
