TUI is expanding its winter flight offerings with a brand-new direct route from Newcastle Airport to Sofia, Bulgaria, launching on December 20, 2025. This weekly Saturday service is set to bolster Crystal Ski Holidays' winter 2026 program, providing a fresh and convenient gateway for travelers from the North East of England to some of Bulgaria's most popular ski resorts.
The new flight will connect passengers directly to Sofia, the capital city, from where they can easily access renowned ski destinations such as Bansko, Pamporovo, and Borovets. These resorts are celebrated for their excellent value, quality accommodation, well-regarded ski schools, and vibrant nightlife, making them a favorite among British holidaymakers seeking a winter sports getaway.
According to TUI UK&I Commercial Director Chris Logan, the decision to launch this route was driven by strong customer demand. "We are excited to introduce a brand-new route to Sofia. The Bulgarian ski resorts have always been a popular choice with Crystal customers, and we're pleased to make the destination even more accessible for travellers from Newcastle and the North of England," he said. Logan highlighted the resorts' appeal, noting their "high-quality hotels, excellent value for money, highly rated ski schools and lively nightlife."
The new Newcastle to Sofia service will operate exclusively for TUI, complementing the airline’s existing Sofia flights from Gatwick, Dublin, Manchester, and Birmingham. The inaugural flight is scheduled for December 20, 2025, and return flights start from £293 per person. This price includes 15kg of checked luggage and 10kg of hand luggage, making it an affordable option for travelers.
For those looking for a full ski holiday experience, Crystal Ski Holidays offers week-long half-board packages starting from £618 per person. These packages include flights, transfers from Sofia Airport to the ski resorts, and accommodation at quality hotels such as the four-star Hotel Lion Bansko. For example, a package departing on January 17, 2026, offers a stay at this hotel for £618 per person based on two sharing.
Leon McQuaid, Director of Aviation Development at Newcastle Airport, welcomed the new route, emphasizing its significance for the region. "It's fantastic to see TUI Airways continuing to invest in Newcastle Airport with the launch of new direct flights to Sofia. This exciting new destination gives our passengers even more choice to explore some of Europe's best-value ski resorts and it's another great addition to our growing winter schedule," he said. McQuaid expressed enthusiasm about celebrating the launch of the route later this year.
The introduction of this route is particularly timely as Bulgaria’s ski resorts have been gaining traction among British holidaymakers due to their affordability and quality. Bansko, Pamporovo, and Borovets offer a compelling package for skiers and snowboarders, combining well-maintained slopes with lively après-ski scenes and reasonably priced accommodations.
TUI’s offering includes both flight-only options and package deals, catering to a broad range of travelers. Flight-only tickets start at £293 per person, providing flexibility for those who prefer to arrange their own accommodation and transfers. Meanwhile, Crystal Ski Holidays’ packages streamline the experience by bundling flights, transfers, and lodging, making it easier for families and groups to plan their winter escape.
This is not TUI’s first foray into Bulgarian ski holidays from the UK. The airline previously operated flights to Sofia from other UK airports and is now extending its reach to the North East. The new Newcastle service is expected to attract avid skiers and holidaymakers who have previously faced longer journeys to access Bulgarian ski resorts.
With winter sports holidays growing in popularity, the timing of this new route aligns well with increasing demand. Skiers looking for affordable options are likely to appreciate the convenience of direct flights from Newcastle, which reduce travel time and complexity compared to connecting flights or longer transfers from other UK airports.
Moreover, the partnership with Crystal Ski Holidays ensures that travelers have access to trusted ski packages, including transfers from Sofia Airport to resorts, which can often be a logistical challenge for independent travelers. This seamless experience enhances the appeal of Bulgaria as a winter destination for British tourists.
In summary, TUI’s announcement marks a significant development for winter holiday options in the UK, especially for those based in the North East. By launching direct flights to Sofia, TUI not only expands its route network but also opens the door for more accessible and affordable ski holidays in Bulgaria’s top resorts.
As the inaugural flight date approaches, travelers can look forward to exploring the slopes of Bansko, Pamporovo, and Borovets with greater ease and convenience than ever before. Whether opting for flight-only tickets or full Crystal Ski Holidays packages, winter 2026 promises to be an exciting season for ski enthusiasts from Newcastle and beyond.
