My Travel Tips for TUI Flight Delays and Cancellations

By Flight Delay Expert Mr Plane Guy

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Having once been part of a team at a London Airport that managed and minimised flight delays, I can tell you that delays are a common part of airport life. On a very good day, only 70% of flights depart on time, meaning at least 30% of flights can experience delays!

Are TUI flights frequently delayed?

According to recent reports, TUI Airways has faced its share of delays. While not the worst, it’s important for travelers to be aware of potential disruptions. In the past year, TUI has had delays averaging around 40 minutes, placing it only just behind Wizz Air behind in terms of on-time performance.

According to Which, this is a list of airlines by their longest average delays.

Thats right TUI are second!

1. Wizz Air 46 minutes and 18 seconds

2. TUI 40 minutes and 18 seconds

3. Qatar Airways 31 minutes and 48 seconds

4. Turkish Airlines 29 minutes and 30 seconds

5. Pegasus Airlines 27 minutes and 18 seconds

6. The now defunct airline Flybe

7. Tap Air Portugal 25 minutes and 48 seconds

8. Air Canada 25 minutes and 18 seconds

9. British Airways 23 minutes

10. Vueling 22 minutes and 12 seconds

Man critical of travel firm after 52-hour delay

A man whose flight from Mexico was delayed by 52 hours said his family was treated

"like absolute rubbish" by travel firm Tui. More here

TUI flight cancelled or delayed? Reroute scans 40+ carriers, partner airlines and nearby airports and hands you a ranked recovery plan, exact flights, seats, and what to say to the agent in under 4 minutes. First recovery route is free. →

Did you know you can claim up to £520 in the UK per person for delayed or cancelled flights?

Check if you can make a claim

Are TUI flights punctual?

In the OAG Punctuality League of 2025, TUI Airways is noted for its performance, but it still trails behind some major carriers. Maintaining an on-time performance (OTP) of around 67%, TUI is competitive but not at the top of the list.

How long does a flight need to be delayed for compensation?

Under EU regulations, you may be entitled to compensation for delays exceeding three hours from your scheduled arrival time. If a TUI flight pushes back but arrives at the gate within that three-hour window, you may not qualify for compensation.

TUI cancelled my flight today; what should I do?

If your TUI flight is cancelled and the airline is responsible, you could be eligible for compensation if the replacement flight delays your arrival by three hours or more, or if the cancellation occurs less than 14 days before your departure.

Tips for Dealing with TUI Flight Delays and Cancellations

1. Have a backup plan. Stay flexible and consider alternative flights or routes if needed.

2. Stay informed. Knowledge is power! Check TUI’s website, social media, and flight tracking apps to stay updated.

3. Gather evidence.Take screenshots of flight statuses and keep receipts for any unexpected expenses.

4. Prepare for the unexpected. Bring snacks, medication, and other essentials to keep you comfortable.

5. Know your rights! Familiarise yourself with your passenger rights regarding delays and cancellations.

What are my rights if my TUI flight is delayed or cancelled?

In the UK, you can claim up to £520 per person for delayed or cancelled flights. You’re entitled to compensation if your flight:

• Departs from the UK

• Arrives in the UK with a TUI flight

• Arrives in the EU with a TUI flight

  
  

If your flight is delayed by more than three hours due to TUI's fault, you should file a claim under EC261 or UK261 rules.

Check if you can make a claim

Your TUI flight is delayed or cancelled, What’s next?

You can file a complaint directly with TUI, but consider the challenges involved:

• Stressful: The process can be overwhelming.

• Time-consuming: You may spend months waiting for a resolution.

• Risky: Legal fees can be a concern if claims escalate.

Alternatively, you might want to get help from a professional service like AirHelp.

AirHelp: Your Claim Partner

I’ve partnered with AirHelp, experts in handling flight delay claims:

Check if you can make a claim Here

• They take care of it all: AirHelp will guide you through the necessary documents and submit them on your behalf.

• No win, no fee: You only pay when you receive compensation.

• Regular updates: Stay informed throughout the process.

Additional Protection with AirHelp Plus

For frequent travellers, consider AirHelp Plus, offering disruption insurance starting at just £2.92 per month! Benefits include:

• Compensation for flight disruptions

• Lounge access during delays

• Dedicated 24/7 support

This plan is perfect for those who travel frequently with TUI!

Plane Smart Survival Kit for Delayed Travellers

Being prepared is half the battle. Here’s what I always pack:

• Portable charger + cables: keep devices alive, I use this Anker Power Bank on Amazon.

• Reusable water bottle: refill post-security and avoid £5 airport bottles.

• Snacks & activities: protein bars, downloaded Netflix shows, podcasts.

• Noise-cancelling headphones: essential for gate chaos.

• Airport lounge access: a quiet space with Wi-Fi and coffee can turn a delay into downtime.

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Do you have a flight coming up with TUI? Check out my review Here

Plane TUI Related Articles

• TUI Luggage Allowance Guide: Everything You Need to Know

• TUI Long Haul 787 In-Flight Meals Menu Long Haul Review

• TUI Flight Review on Long Haul

• Flight Delay Guide: What To Do If Your Flight Is Delayed

• Flight Delayed? Here’s Why You Need Trip Delay Insurance

• Flight Delay Compensation UK: Claim Up to £520 in 2026

My Travel Tips for TUI Flight Delays and Cancellations

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Flying soon? Check out my Flight Delay Guide, Just in case!

Check out my Flight Delay Guide