Smartwings

TUI Airways maintains a generally strong safety record as a large European charter airline. The airline prioritizes the safety of its passengers and crew and operates under strict international safety standards.

Recent Safety Record and Notable Incidents:

While TUI Airways has a low number of significant incidents, there have been a few notable events:

• On March 9, 2022, a Boeing 737 departing Manchester experienced a tail strike during takeoff due to co-pilot inexperience in windy conditions. The flight returned safely, and no injuries were reported.
• On October 20, 2023, TUI Airways Flight 3551, a Boeing 737-800, skidded off the runway at Leeds Bradford Airport during heavy rain. There were no injuries, and the aircraft was subsequently repaired and returned to service.
• On March 4, 2024, TUI Airways Flight 6114, a Boeing 737-800, was involved in an incident where it reportedly barely cleared a road by less than 100 feet during takeoff from Bristol Airport.
• In October 2023, TUI Airways was among airlines impacted by a scandal involving a supplier that provided aircraft parts with forged safety records. TUI confirmed that one such component was identified, promptly removed, and the supplier was delisted from its approved suppliers. TUI conducted a full audit and stated that no other dubious parts were found on its engines.

Regulatory Certifications:

TUI Airways operates under a United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Type A Operating Licence, permitting it to carry passengers, cargo, and mail on aircraft with 20 or more seats. As a major European airline, it adheres to the comprehensive safety regulations set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). All aircraft operated by TUI fly subsidiaries are stated to comply with the strictest international technological and safety standards.

Fleet Age and Maintenance Reputation:

As of September 2023, the average age of the TUI Airways fleet was 11.9 years. The airline aims to maintain one of Europe's youngest and most modern fleets, with a focus on replacing older aircraft. For instance, older Boeing 737-800s are being retired, with 14 additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft ordered for delivery between 2025 and 2026. While the airline commits to safety and maintenance, some anecdotal observations suggest that older Dreamliner aircraft may appear "tatty" externally due to less frequent repainting, which some attribute to the airline's focus on cost-efficiency for its package holiday market.

Overall Safety Assessment:

Based on available data, TUI Airways has a commendably good overall safety assessment, especially considering its extensive operations as the world's largest charter airline. The airline's incidents have generally been operational rather than catastrophic, with no fatalities or serious injuries reported. Its swift and transparent response to the forged parts scandal further underscores its commitment to passenger safety. TUI Group emphasizes its consistent performance, commitment to safety, and focus on customer satisfaction.

Safety Awards or Recognitions:

TUI Airline (the group) has been recognized as Europe's Leading Charter Airline for five consecutive years (since 2021 as of October 2025) at the World Travel Awards. This award acknowledges its excellence in service and commitment to safety. TUI Airways was also named Best Leisure Airline in the UK by Skytrax in 2022.