Tui labels Doncaster Sheffield closure ‘incredibly disappointing’

The boss of Tui UK and Ireland has shared his frustration at the decision to close Doncaster Sheffield as the operator revealed its final flight from the airport would depart in November.

According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, Tui and Wizz Air offered the most departures from the airport during July and August this year.

In terms of departing flights, Doncaster Sheffield was the 28th largest airport in the UK in 2021, but was the 26th biggest in 2019.

The airport’s owner, Peel Group, said the site would wind down from October 31, 2022, due to “a fundamental lack of financial viability”.

Tui UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham (pictured) has explained how the company worked with Peel Group and the government to “try and prevent this outcome”.

He said: “We’re incredibly disappointed about the decision to close Doncaster Sheffield Airport to passengers.

“We’re working closely with our customers and colleagues on the required next steps.”

Flintham confirmed flights would continue as scheduled from Doncaster Sheffield until November 4, when its last flight is due to depart.

“Customer communications will be sent to those impacted shortly and we will do everything we can to offer suitable, alternative roles to colleagues,” he said.

Doncaster customers will be contacted “in the coming weeks” by Tui about alternative options.

They can either change to another holiday for free or cancel and receive a full refund, added Flintham.

“There are a number of other airports in the region that we operate from, including East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Manchester, so we will continue to offer great holiday options to a variety of destinations to those living in the area,” he said.