• Innovative fuel efficiency measures drive reduced emissions and enhanced flight performance

• Redesigned on-board experience focuses on reducing cabin waste and promoting sustainability

• Chris Grube: “This flight is more than a journey—it’s a clear statement of our commitment to driving meaningful change and accelerating progress towards reducing aviation’s environmental footprint”

Flight TOM048 serves as a live demonstration of TUI’s sustainability roadmap in action, showcasing the airline’s commitment to fuel efficiency, cabin waste reduction, and collaborative innovation. This forms part of a broader push to accelerate environmental responsibility through a series of targeted measures designed to reduce emissions, cut waste, and embed sustainable practices across both in-flight and ground operations.

TUI Airline is introducing a series of targeted fuel-saving initiatives as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. Key measures include:

• Centre of Gravity Optimisation – Refining aircraft loading procedures to improve the centre of gravity, resulting in reduced aerodynamic drag and enhanced fuel efficiency.
• Optimised Flight Profiles – Using advanced data analysis and aircraft performance modelling, TUI has implemented precise adjustments to climb, cruise, and descent phases to maximise fuel efficiency throughout the flight.

These initiatives support TUI Airline’s commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and are a vital component of its wider decarbonisation strategy. Data gathered from these optimisations will also inform future improvements across the entire fleet.

TUI Airline is reimagining the onboard experience with a strong focus on sustainability. Recent initiatives include:

• A Redesigned Dining Experience – Featuring more sustainable packaging solutions, trials of community-made products, and improved cabin waste management procedures to significantly reduce waste generated during flights.

These efforts represent another step forward in TUI’s commitment to responsible travel and reducing the environmental impact of its operations.

TUI Airline is also advancing its sustainability goals through a series of ground-based trials aimed at reducing environmental impact. Current initiatives include:

• Transition to Low-Emission Ground Equipment – Testing the use of electric and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)-powered ground service equipment by ASC and Menzies Aviation to cut emissions on the tarmac.
• Reducing Plastic Waste – Notifying passengers about available water refill stations to encourage the use of reusable bottles and minimise single-use plastics.
• Sustainable Deliveries – Partnering with DHL to trial electric vehicle deliveries at London Gatwick Airport, supporting low-emission logistics operations.

These trials reflect TUI’s broader commitment to decarbonising its entire value chain, both in the air and on the ground.

“This flight represents more than just a journey – it’s a clear statement of our commitment and determination to drive meaningful change in aviation sustainability. At TUI Airline, we are dedicated to making flying more sustainable, and this showcase flight from London to Cancun vividly demonstrates that commitment in action. From innovative fuel efficiency measures to reducing cabin waste and fostering strong partnerships, every aspect has been carefully designed to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. We are thrilled to participate in The Aviation Challenge alongside London Gatwick, ASC, DHL, Dnata, Menzies Aviation and ASUR, working together to accelerate progress. The valuable insights gained from this flight will help shape the future of our operations and fast-track our journey towards meeting our science-based decarbonisation targets”, said Chris Grube, Managing Director Flight Operations at TUI Airline.

"We’re proud to support TUI’s showcase flight from London Gatwick as part of The Aviation Challenge. Making aviation more sustainable relies on strong partnerships and shared innovation. It’s encouraging to see TUI trial new fuel-saving measures, and this is exactly the kind of action needed to drive real, lasting progress. The Aviation Challenge is a positive signal of the industry’s intent to adapt and work together to develop sustainable solutions", said Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer, London Gatwick.

The flight offers content opportunities, from behind-the-scenes footage to interviews with operational teams, showcasing the human and technological effort behind sustainable aviation. We will have a photographer/videographer supporting the challenge so can look at bespoke content if needed. To request an interview, contact Lorraine Bryant, Lorraine.Bryant@tui.co.uk.