TUI Airlines to Cease Greece Flights from Cork Airport by Summer 2026

TUI Airlines, a leading player in the travel industry, has announced the discontinuation of its direct flights from Cork Airport to Greece, specifically Corfu, effective from the summer of 2026. This strategic decision forms part of a broader restructuring of TUI's Irish flight operations, aimed at enhancing customer flexibility and choice in travel options.

The announcement, made on July 3, 2025, indicates that TUI will shift from operating its own aircraft for these routes to utilizing partner airlines, including Ryanair and Aer Lingus. This transition is expected to result in a decreased number of available seats to popular destinations, although flights to Portugal, Barcelona/Reus, and Lanzarote will still be offered through these partner carriers. Craig Morgan, TUI’s head of Ireland, emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining its presence in the Irish market while adapting to changing consumer demands.

According to TUI, the decision to end the Corfu route is intended to streamline operations and focus on core offerings while still providing customers with viable alternatives. Customers who have already booked flights to Corfu will be proactively contacted with options, including full refunds or rebooking on alternative flights within three days of their original schedule.

Morgan stated, "Our commitment to our programme from Ireland remains steadfast, as do our valued trade partnerships. We have ambitious plans to increase our market share through sustainable, profitable growth strategies. This evolution is about enhancing customer choice through partner flying while maintaining our distinctive offerings."

This announcement coincides with a broader trend among airlines to adapt to fluctuating travel demands post-pandemic. TUI currently serves Irish customers with 71 destinations through 14 partner airlines, highlighting its ongoing efforts to expand its reach in a competitive market.

Cork Airport officials have expressed their understanding of TUI's strategic realignment. A spokesperson remarked, "Cork Airport has an excellent working relationship with TUI Ireland and looks forward to continuing that strong partnership into the future."

This shift in service is not isolated to TUI, as other airlines have also revised their route networks in response to changing travel patterns and economic pressures. For instance, Ryanair and Aer Lingus have both announced adjustments to their schedules, aiming to optimize operations and respond to customer preferences.

Historically, TUI has been a significant player in the Irish travel market, offering numerous holiday packages and direct flights to various destinations, especially in the Mediterranean. The decision to discontinue the Greece route from Cork Airport may have implications for local tourism, which has increasingly relied on international travel since the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions.

As summer approaches, many travelers are preparing for their holidays, and shifts in flight availability may influence destination choices. Industry analysts suggest that the consolidation of flight operations could lead to increased competition among airlines as they vie for a share of the lucrative travel market. The future of air travel, particularly in the wake of recent global events, remains uncertain, necessitating adaptability from both airlines and travelers alike.

In conclusion, while TUI's decision to cease flights from Cork to Corfu marks a significant change in its operational strategy, the company remains committed to enhancing customer offerings through partner arrangements. This transition reflects broader trends within the airline industry and emphasizes the importance of agility in meeting evolving consumer preferences in travel. The outlook for Cork Airport and local tourism will depend on how airlines navigate these changes and the resulting impact on flight availability and destination choices moving forward.