TUI reallocates Luton aircraft to Gatwick amid strategic review

Travel operator TUI is set to relocate its only aircraft based at London Luton Airport to London Gatwick Airport by next summer, aligning with its goal to maximise commercial and operational efficiency. The move follows higher demand at Gatwick, which underpins the company’s overarching strategy to consolidate and strengthen core operations in key markets.

Despite the shift, the firm has reaffirmed its commitment to Luton, where both its UK headquarters and engineering hangar are situated. Holidays from Luton will continue to be available for customers, facilitated by partner carriers such as easyJet and Ryanair. Some passengers may be rebooked to fly from other airports. Notably, a single TUI service to Palma in Majorca will continue to stop at Luton to collect and disembark travellers during outbound and return journeys.

TUI is currently consulting with affected cabin crew over the changes. Staff have reported being offered opportunities to transfer to other airports or to take redundancy, according to insider accounts. Employees based at the Luton head office in Wigmore House are unaffected, although plans are in motion for a subsequent relocation to Capability Green upon conclusion of the current lease.

TUI’s UK airline operations trace their heritage to Luton, following its acquisition of the Thomson Travel Group in 2000 and the renowned Britannia Airways in the same deal. The airline’s TOM flight designation remains as a legacy. The company’s continued evolution marks the end of a longstanding base at Luton, reflecting the volatility and shifting focus within the aviation sector.