About the London → Sharm el Sheikh route
London Gatwick to Sharm el Sheikh is unambiguously a leisure route — one of the most sun-chased short-to-medium haul flights operating out of the UK. At just under 3,900 kilometres and barely four and a half hours in the air, you're not crossing an ocean, but you are crossing climates entirely. easyJet (U2) runs this corridor regularly alongside TUI and other charter-focused carriers, meaning the cabin is typically full of divers, honeymooners, and families on school-holiday packages rather than suited road warriors. It's a route that knows exactly what it is, and delivers accordingly.
Why travel from London to Sharm el Sheikh?
Sharm el Sheikh's pull is specific and well-earned. The diving along the Ras Mohammed National Park reef systems is genuinely world-class — the kind of underwater visibility that embarrasses the Mediterranean. Beyond the water, there's the question of the wider Sinai Peninsula, with day trips to St Catherine's Monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai attracting travellers who want history alongside their beach time. For British visitors particularly, Sharm carries decades of package-holiday familiarity, which means the infrastructure is comfortable without being sanitised. It's a place where you can eat excellent mezze, haggle for spices in the Old Market, and still find a proper cup of tea at the hotel pool. Some travellers use it as a base for longer Egypt itineraries. Most, honestly, come for the Red Sea and are not remotely sorry about that.
Quick stats
- Distance: 3,865 km
- Estimated flight time: 4h 33m
- Operating airlines: BA, LS, U2, W9
- Direct route: yes
Practical tips for LGW → SSH
October through April is the sweet spot — temperatures are warm rather than punishing, and fares tend to ease outside the Christmas and February half-term peaks. Arrive expecting a busy but manageable airport; SSH handles 83 non-stop routes and processes resort crowds efficiently. Taxis into Naama Bay or the hotel strips are widely available, but agree on a fare before you get in. Egypt's currency is the pound (EGP), and UK visitors currently need a visa — available on arrival or in advance online. If you're flying on a low-cost or charter carrier, check your baggage allowance carefully before you pack the dive kit.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the flight from London Gatwick to Sharm el Sheikh take?
The flight covers approximately 3,865 km and typically takes around 4 hours and 33 minutes of flight time. This is a direct route with no stopovers required.
Which airlines operate the London Gatwick to Sharm el Sheikh route?
Four airlines service this route: British Airways (BA), Lasair (LS), easyJet (U2), and Wizz Air (W9). You can compare schedules and fares across these carriers when booking.
What's the best time of year to fly from London to Sharm el Sheikh?
October to April offers the most pleasant climate in Sharm el Sheikh with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, while also typically featuring competitive fares outside peak summer season. May to September is extremely hot but may offer cheaper tickets if you're budget-conscious.
Do UK citizens need a visa to travel to Egypt?
Yes, British citizens require a visa to enter Egypt, which can be obtained on arrival at Sharm el Sheikh airport or arranged in advance through the Egyptian embassy. The tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days and the process is straightforward for leisure travelers.
What should I know about luggage, jet lag, and transit for this route?
Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and checked luggage; verify your specific airline's policy when booking. The 4.5-hour flight and one-hour time difference (Egypt is typically one hour ahead) means minimal jet lag, though staying hydrated during the flight helps with adjustment.