The German carrier will offer onward connectivity from Frankfurt to destinations such as Singapore, Beijing and Shanghai, as well as routes throughout North and South America, Africa and Asia.

Frankfurt is currently the fifth busiest European airport and seventh busiest globally for international passengers.

Lufthansa will return to Gatwick on 23 April 2023 and the new route will also attract travellers to the city, which is Germany’s financial capital and home of the European Central Bank.

Stewart Wingate, Gatwick chief executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Lufthansa back to Gatwick airport next year, providing passengers across London and the south-east with a vital connection to Frankfurt.

“The city is not only a hugely important financial hub but offers excellent onward connectivity and opportunities. It’s also a great place for tourists too, with fantastic museums and architecture.”

Heinrich Lange, Lufthansa’s senior director sales Northern Europe, added: “Lufthansa is happy to operate to London Gatwick next summer to connect this major airport with our hub in Frankfurt. We come closer to our customers in the south of London and will ease the access to our global network. We are glad to have Gatwick as our third London airport served in our timetable.”