Another transatlantic option: Zoom in to Gatwick

The past few years have seen a boom in alternative transatlantic airlines, carriers out to set themselves apart from the majors. The first rush was on the high end of the register, upscale carriers such as Eos Airlines, MAXjet Airways, and Silverjet. All compete for Business-Class fliers, and use outlying London airports.

Now along comes Zoom, sort of a Sir Freddie Laker (the original UK-US discounter) kind of carrier, with rock-bottom prices and more frills than Laker's old service. The carrier is fielding nonstop service from New York Kennedy (JFK) to London Gatwick (LGW) for $199 each way, exclusive of taxes and fees. These rates are bereft of restrictions, such as Saturday-night stays.

The venerable 767-300s Zoom flies on the route are fitted with two classes of service: Economy (31 inches of knee-room), and Premium Economy (36 inches).

Zoom zooms out of JFK's Terminal 4, and employs the South Terminal at Gatwick. Flights depart Kennedy at 5:30pm, and the return leg leaves Gatwick at 1pm. Initially, there will be five round-trips per week.

To get you to try the product, Zoom is offering a $99 one-way Economy discount airfare between June 22 and July 13. Taxes are included in the deal.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler

Related article: Zoom begins New York-London flights