easyJet's Surprising History with the Boeing 757

When it comes to easyJet, the low-cost carrier known for its iconic orange colors and Airbus A320 series aircraft, you may be surprised to learn that the airline also operated the Boeing 757. In 2010, easyJet leased four 757-200s to meet the demand on its busy summer leisure routes.

One of these leased aircraft, registered as OH-AFJ, arrived from Air Finland and had previously flown for Baikal Airlines and Avianca. Despite its short three-month tenure with easyJet, OH-AFJ, along with the other 757s, sported easyJet's distinct orange paint scheme. After the summer season, OH-AFJ returned to Air Finland and eventually found a new life as a cargo aircraft for FedEx.

Another leased 757, registered as G-OJIB, joined easyJet from Astraeus, a UK leisure and charter carrier. Prior to its time with Astraeus, this aircraft had served various airlines including Canada 3000, Spanair, and Saudi Arabian Airlines. After Astraeus ceased operations, it was also converted into a cargo freighter for FedEx.

The third 757 to join easyJet, registered as G-ZAPX, came from Titan Airways and featured 195 seats. Before its time with Titan, this aircraft had flown for Iberia and was leased out to other British carriers after leaving easyJet. Currently, it sits derelict in Kemble.

OH-AFI, the fourth and final 757 leased by easyJet, also came from Air Finland. This aircraft had winglets and had a rich history of serving different airlines including Transavia, Air Transat, and Safi Airways. In recent years, it underwent a premium-heavy conversion and now operates with Russia's Azur Air.

In addition to these four leases, easyJet briefly operated other 757s from Titan Airways and Condor during specific periods. While easyJet's fleet is predominantly Airbus now, its history with the Boeing 757 shows the airline's flexibility in adapting to different aircraft types to meet its operational needs.