Powdair launches route to Sion from Southend

The Valais region of Switzerland is home to 36 different ski areas, some of the world’s best and most high profile resorts.

Sion is the only airport in the region, however no scheduled commercial airlines fly there on a regular basis. Winter sports fans typically fly into Geneva before travelling for three hours (or more) to reach their destination.

Switzerland is known for its chic, world-class ski resorts and the Valais offers over 2000km of pristine pistes. The charming resort of Nendaz is just 25 minutes from the Sion Airport tarmac, whilst the sunny slopes of Crans-Montana are only 30 minutes away. Verbier, a firm favourite amongst royals, is just a 45-minute transfer ride from Sion, whilst the challenging, high-altitude terrain of Zermatt is only one hour away.

Valais resorts such as Lötschental and Aletsch Arena (above) are a popular choice for families and beginner skiers looking for gentle, progressive slopes on which to practice those first turns. Those looking for more adrenalin-fuelled fun will appreciate the glacial slopes of Saas-Fee and the endless powder fields only accessible by helicopter. There are also no fewer than 11 Michelin-starred restaurants, proving that the ski resorts of the Valais really do have it all.

More and more people are choosing award winning London Southend with its unique customer service and lack of queues compared to other London Airports as they make travelling so quick and stress free. With superb access, including its own station with up to six trains per hour to and from the heart of London in 45 minutes and a 15-minute ‘train to plane’ promise, it means you can be in the Departure Lounge – and on your way to the slopes - in under an hour. 

Glyn Jones, CEO at London Southend Airport said: “The announcement of a new, winter sports route further builds on our ambition to make London Southend the capital’s next big airport by providing fantastic leisure and business destinations to passengers from Essex, London and the South East.”
 
Zoe Ombler, powdair Head of Commercial said: "We are really pleased to announce London Southend as one of our routes between Sion and the UK, knowing the number of keen skiers and snowboarders in the area. powdair offers the chance to reach some of Switzerland's top ski resorts directly from the South East, cutting transfer times massively and bringing the mountains closer to everyone."