TUI has announced a major expansion of its operations at Cardiff Airport for summer 2026, introducing three new routes and increasing flight frequencies on several existing popular destinations. Starting in May 2026, the airline will base a fourth aircraft at the airport, significantly enhancing travel options for Welsh holidaymakers.
The new routes include direct flights to Hurghada, Egypt, beginning on May 2, 2026, offering Welsh travelers access to the stunning Red Sea. Additionally, TUI will connect Cardiff with Faro, Portugal, starting on May 21, 2026, providing easy access to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve. The Canary Islands' Fuerteventura will also continue into summer 2026 after launching for the winter season on December 20, 2025.
In response to rising demand, TUI will increase the number of weekly flights to several existing destinations. Flights to Antalya will rise from three to four per week, while Gran Canaria will see an increase from one to two flights weekly. Palma de Mallorca will have an additional flight, going from five to six per week. Enfidha in Tunisia will now operate three times a week instead of two, and Tenerife flights will be increased to four weekly.
Chris Logan, TUI UK & Ireland’s Commercial Director, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, “We’re really excited to be expanding our routes and flying frequency from Cardiff Airport to give our customers even more choice and flexibility.” He highlighted the growing demand for destinations like Turkey, Tenerife, and Mallorca, which has increased year on year.
Lee Smith, Head of Business Development at Cardiff Airport, welcomed the announcement as a significant investment in both the airport and Wales. He noted, “This is fantastic news and a major investment in Cardiff Airport and Wales from TUI.” Smith emphasized that the additional 48,000 holidays available from Cardiff next summer, including new routes to Faro and Hurghada, reflect TUI's confidence in the market.
In another development, Waterhaul, a sustainable eyewear brand, has partnered with TUI to launch its Pentire sunglasses onboard flights across the UK and Europe starting May 2025. Passengers will be able to purchase these sunglasses while traveling to over 180 destinations served by TUI’s airlines.
Each pair of Pentire sunglasses is crafted from 100% recycled discarded fishing gear, addressing the issue of ocean plastic. Mel Williams, Retail Product Manager at TUI, commented on the collaboration, saying, “Together with our partners, we strive to continue to positively contribute to local communities, reduce our environmental footprint and create experiences that are authentic and sustainable.”
Jonathan Corbett, Waterhaul Travel Retail Coordinator, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are really excited about this new partnership with TUI which signifies Waterhaul’s expanding presence in the travel retail sector with like-minded companies.”
Additionally, TUI has teamed up with Paddy & Scott’s, a coffee brand that has created a new blend called Adventure Coffee specifically for TUI flights. This collaboration aims to enhance the coffee experience for TUI's 12 million customers traveling from 20 UK airports to 85 destinations worldwide.
Jon Reed, CEO and Owner of Paddy & Scott’s, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “It’s an absolute privilege that one of the finest travel companies in the world wants to team up with Paddy & Scott's to make a real difference in coffee-growing regions around the world.”
Paddy & Scott's commitment extends beyond just providing coffee; they aim to create sustainable social and environmental impacts in coffee-growing communities by funding school meals for children and providing dignity packs for young women. Reed emphasized the importance of their mission, stating, “Imagine a simple cup of coffee that is fuelling the next generation of agronomists and material scientists.”
The combination of TUI's expansion at Cardiff Airport, the introduction of sustainable products like Waterhaul’s sunglasses, and the new Adventure Coffee blend from Paddy & Scott’s showcases a significant shift towards more environmentally conscious travel options. As TUI continues to enhance its offerings, it appears to be committed to not only providing enjoyable travel experiences but also contributing positively to the communities and environments connected to their operations.
With these developments, TUI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel from Wales, making it easier and more enjoyable for holidaymakers to explore new destinations while also promoting sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
