Jet2 Holidays Goes Viral: How a British Tour Operator Won the Internet

Writing Time: August 04, 2025, 14:30 (U.S. Eastern Time)

Jet2 Holidays, once seen as just another budget travel brand, has become an unlikely online sensation. Known for its all-inclusive packages and cheerful branding, the company has captured hearts—and social media feeds—across the globe. From TikTok memes to glowing reviews, here’s how Jet2 turned low-cost travel into a high-impact cultural moment.

A Budget Brand With a Premium Feel

Founded in 2007, Jet2 Holidays is the tour operator arm of Jet2, a UK-based airline that began commercial passenger flights in 2003. The company specializes in package holidays that bundle flights, hotels, baggage, and transfers—all designed to make travel easier and more predictable for customers.

Travel journalist Claire Dodd is among its many repeat travelers. Despite her experience staying in luxury resorts and cruises, she chooses Jet2 Holidays for personal trips.

“They’re a fricking delight,” says Dodd. “At the airport, you’re met with friendly, organized staff—no long queues, just people who look happy to help.”

This sentiment reflects a growing trend: British travelers are increasingly favoring practical, affordable, and well-organized travel over flashy experiences. With consistent customer service, fair pricing, and inclusive perks like 22kg baggage and hotel transfers, Jet2 Holidays has become a go-to for hassle-free getaways.

The Ad That Took Over the Internet

Jet2’s unexpected viral moment began in early 2024 with a promotional TV ad offering £50 off per person on holiday bookings. The upbeat commercial followed a family racing joyfully through the airport, high-fiving Jet2 staff, and boarding their holiday-bound flight—all set to Jess Glynne’s 2015 hit “Hold My Hand.”

Though the promotion has long expired, the ad’s audio has found a second life on TikTok. Stripped of visuals and repurposed in user-generated content, the catchy jingle now soundtracks a range of humorous vacation mishaps—from missed flights to chaotic hotel stays. In total, the clip has been used in over a million videos.

Even Hollywood got in on the trend. Actor Jeff Goldblum joined the fun with a parody video dubbing his version “Jeff2 Holidays.”

Despite the social media explosion, Jet2 declined to comment when contacted by CNN about its viral success.

Behind the Scenes: A Brand Built for Reliability

The internet may treat Jet2 like a passing meme, but loyal customers see something more lasting: a dependable travel partner.

Tanya Kirk, an art therapist from Northern Ireland, says her trip to Benidorm exceeded expectations. When her mother lost her travel wallet during the transfer, Jet2’s team promptly stepped in to help.

“They did everything they could to trace and return the wallet. It made the whole trip much less stressful,” Kirk recalls. “Booking everything together means you don’t have to worry. It’s all sorted in one go.”

From predictable pricing to flexible upgrade options—like private transfers instead of shared coaches—Jet2 Holidays prioritizes clarity and convenience.

From Flower Freight to Package Holidays

Jet2’s current status as the UK’s largest tour operator belies its modest beginnings. Originally established in 1971 as Carpenter’s Air Services, the company started by transporting flowers from Guernsey to the mainland. After several rebrands, it launched as Jet2 in 2003, and Jet2 Holidays followed in 2007.

Today, Jet2 operates a fleet of more than 120 Boeing and Airbus aircraft from 13 regional UK airports to sunny destinations across Europe. In 2024 alone, the airline carried nearly 19.4 million passengers on over 115,000 flights.

Its consistent performance has been recognized by consumer watchdog Which?, which has repeatedly ranked Jet2 as the UK’s top short-haul airline since the pandemic.

“Jet2 is one of our best-rated travel firms,” says Naomi Leach, deputy editor of Which? Travel. “Their staff are known for going above and beyond.”

The Jess Glynne Effect

Much of Jet2’s recent fame can be traced to its now-iconic soundtrack. “Hold My Hand,” Jess Glynne’s 2015 chart-topper, plays on loop during Jet2 boarding procedures and has become synonymous with the brand.

Tina Edwards, a global DJ and presenter for British Airways’ “Next Big Thing” music show, credits the song’s musical structure for its staying power.

“It’s a perfect fifth—harmonious and satisfying,” she explains. “That hook just sticks.”

The song’s success goes beyond Jet2. It’s been used in Coca-Cola ads, featured in Bridget Jones’ Baby, and even hit the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Although Glynne has yet to formally comment on the viral trend, she has participated by posting her own spoof ad on TikTok and celebrating the track’s 10-year anniversary with fans. In March, she wrote, “Here’s to Jet2 blasting it in everyone’s ears.”

However, she drew a firm line when the White House used the same audio in a controversial deportation-related post on social media. Calling it “sick,” she emphasized that her music promotes love and unity—not hate.

Customer Loyalty Built on Consistency

Travel professionals say Jet2’s appeal lies in the predictability of the experience.

“You know exactly what you’re getting,” says Markus Kendall-Young, director of Auria Travel. “It’s stress-free, value-driven, and the customer support is excellent.”

He says clients love the cheerful atmosphere onboard, even if it includes corny in-flight announcements or relentless food and drink promotions.

“It’s part of the charm,” he adds. “The song, the vibe—it all gets you in the holiday mood before you’ve even taken off.”

For others, like Rick Turner, a travel content creator and copywriter from Leeds, Jet2 is a “guilty pleasure.”

“We live off-grid, so flying always feels a bit wrong,” he says. “But Jet2 flights are fun, cheap, and a lot better than other budget airlines.”

Conclusion: A British Brand With Global Appeal

Jet2 Holidays has tapped into something deeper than just low prices or catchy jingles—it’s built a reputation for reliability, friendliness, and fun. While social media may move on to the next meme, many travelers remain loyal to a brand that consistently delivers good value and stress-free holidays.

In an age where unpredictability often defines travel, Jet2 offers the comfort of knowing exactly what to expect—and that may be its most powerful asset of all.

Source: CNN – Why everyone on the internet is suddenly so obsessed with Jet2 Holidays