TUI fly Netherlands Retires Boeing 767, Shifts to Modern Fleet

TUI fly Netherlands has officially retired its last Boeing 767-300ER, marking the end of B767 operations across the TUI Group. The aircraft, registered as PH-OYJ, completed its final revenue flight from Amsterdam Schiphol to Lanzarote via Fuerteventura before returning to Amsterdam on November 3, 2024. Following this final flight, PH-OYJ was ferried to Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen on November 4, as recorded by Flightradar24’s ADS-B tracking.

PH-OYJ, equipped with General Electric engines, has a long operational history spanning nearly 25 years. Delivered to Thomson Airways in February 2000, this aircraft later operated under Arke Fly (formerly HollandExel and now TUI fly Netherlands) and briefly with TUI fly Belgium. In January 2023, the aircraft was reassigned to TUI fly Netherlands, where it served until its recent retirement. Over the years, TUI fly Netherlands maintained a fleet of seven B767-300ERs, according to data from the ch-aviation fleets module.

Historically, the Boeing 767 has been a staple within the TUI Group’s operations, with all TUI Group airlines using this model at some point. TUI Airways, based in the United Kingdom, operated the largest number of B767s, with a cumulative fleet of 18. However, in January 2022, TUI Group announced plans to phase out the B767 fleet across all its airlines by 2024 in favor of more fuel-efficient, modern aircraft, particularly the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

With the retirement of its B767s, TUI fly Netherlands has transitioned to a newer widebody fleet. Currently, it operates five Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, with one of these aircraft wet-leased from TUI fly Belgium. The Dutch carrier also leases a Boeing 777-200ER from Spain’s Privilege Style to support its operations. This shift aligns with TUI Group’s broader sustainability goals, aiming to reduce fuel consumption and enhance the travel experience with advanced in-flight amenities.

In addition to focusing on widebody fleet renewal, TUI fly Netherlands is also evaluating options for its narrowbody fleet. Among the models under consideration is the Boeing 737-10, which could serve as a potential successor for its retired B767s. This consideration comes as TUI aims to maintain operational efficiency and adaptability in a competitive aviation landscape.

The retirement of the Boeing 767 represents a significant shift in TUI Group’s operational strategy, prioritizing fuel-efficient aircraft to meet environmental and economic goals. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its long-range capabilities and reduced carbon footprint, plays a crucial role in TUI fly Netherlands’ transition to a modern fleet.

This fleet upgrade strategy not only reflects TUI’s commitment to environmental responsibility but also enhances passenger comfort. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring advanced technology and passenger-friendly cabin designs, provides travelers with a quieter and more enjoyable flight experience. Additionally, TUI Group’s investment in fleet modernization signals its focus on offering sustainable and high-quality service across its global network.

In summary, TUI fly Netherlands’ decision to retire the B767 is a strategic move that aligns with the TUI Group’s commitment to sustainability and modernization. This shift ensures that TUI can continue to deliver quality service while meeting evolving environmental standards, positioning the group as a forward-thinking leader in the aviation industry.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com