TUI issues statement to customers after Doncaster Sheffield Airport closure plan revealed

Owner Peel Group announced it would begin to wind down the aviation business from October 31 after failing to ensure the future of the airport. The planned move to close the airport had been met with vociferous objections, and local MPs and mayors had rallied round to ensure they would support the airport in the future.

New Prime Minister Liz Truss even said earlier this month that part of her legacy would be ensuring Doncaster Sheffield Airport would remain open.

But that appears to be slipping from her grasp already following the announcement made by Peel Group on Monday morning (Sep 26).

TUI, which operates a number of flights from DSA, said it was ‘incredibly disappointed’ by the news, and said it would contact its customers soon to make arrangement for their holidays.

A statement from the travel company said: “We’re incredibly disappointed about the decision to close Doncaster Sheffield Airport to passengers. The airport has always been a popular and important regional airport for our valued customers and colleagues in the local area.​

“We know how important regional airports are to the UK economy and we’ve always supported any proposals to keep the airport open. We’ve worked with Peel Group, the airport’s owners, and Government throughout the consultation process to try and prevent this outcome. ​

“Our flights continue to operate as planned until our last flight on November 4, 2022. We're working closely with our customers and colleagues on the required next steps. Customer communications will be sent to those impacted shortly and we will do everything we can to offer suitable, alternative roles to colleagues. ​

“Doncaster customers will be contacted, in departure date order, in the coming weeks to outline their alternatives and options which will, at the very least, include the option to amend to another holiday for free or cancel and receive a full refund.

"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.”