Any airline's aircraft fleet plays a crucial role in meeting operational requirements and ensuring efficiency and safety. Fleet modernisation is a necessary but often costly process that allows airlines to replace their older aircraft with newer, more efficient models. Tui's recent move to remove the last Boeing 767s from its fleet not only marks the end of an era for the company, but also a milestone in the aviation sector as the model is increasingly being replaced by the newer generation of aircraft.
In November 2024, Tui flew its last Boeing 767 on a commercial passenger flight. The flight, number OR1605, took off on November 4 from Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, and landed in Amsterdam after a journey of around four and a half hours. Up until this point, the aircraft type had been a central pillar in the fleet of Tui and its predecessor companies. The Boeing 767, known for its versatility and efficiency on medium-haul routes, entered service in 2000 and was one of the most important aircraft in Tui's operations for several decades.
The last example, registered PH-OYJ, was welcomed with a ceremonial gesture at Amsterdam Airport. After landing in Amsterdam, the aircraft was flown to Istanbul for further modification and maintenance, before eventually travelling to the USA, where it was converted for future use as a cargo aircraft. Tui did not explain at this time how the aircraft would be used in the future, but the aircraft's journey to retirement signals the final farewell to a model that played a significant role in aviation history.
The Boeing 767: A long and successful history
The Boeing 767 began its journey with Tui and other airlines in the early 2000s. The aircraft was first operated by Britannia Airways and moved between various brands throughout its career, including Thomson Airways, Arke Fly and Tui Belgium. In 2015, the aircraft landed at Tui Netherlands, where it remained until its final journey in November 2024.
The 24-year-old 767-300ER (PH-OYJ) was equipped with a configuration of 31 Business Class seats and 264 Economy seats, giving a total capacity of 295 passengers. The modern replacement, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, has since replaced many of Tui's older aircraft and offers improvements in comfort and efficiency for both passengers and flight crew.
The Boeing 767 was known for its versatility and reliability. It could be used for both long-haul international flights and shorter, medium-haul routes. With an average flight time of 5 hours and 35 minutes each way and a daily usage time of more than 10 hours, the PH-OYJ was one of the most frequently used aircraft in Tui's fleet. In total, the aircraft had completed more than 95.000 flight hours and almost 17.200 flight cycles by the time it was retired. Despite advancing age and the increasing availability of newer aircraft models such as the 787, the 767 remained a reliable worker on many of the routes served by Tui.
The end of an era: The transition to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner
The introduction of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner into Tui's fleet represents a clear step into the future. The new jets not only offer improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, but also greater passenger comfort. With a longer range and modern technologies, the Dreamliner is predestined for use on the global long-haul routes that Tui increasingly serves.
However, the withdrawal of the Boeing 767 means more than just a fleet modification. Tui is saying goodbye to an aircraft type that formed the backbone of the European charter and holiday flight market for over 40 years. With the retirement of the last 767 at Tui, the role of this aircraft model in Europe is becoming increasingly smaller, although many aircraft of this type are still in use around the world. In the USA in particular, airlines such as Delta and United are still active in passenger operations with Boeing 767s, and the 767 remains a popular model on cargo routes.
The Boeing 767 will continue to be present in the aviation industry in various forms, but its gradual phase-out in Europe and the increasing dominance of the more efficient Boeing 787 and other modern aircraft mark a turning point for the industry and for Tui, the company that has been associated with this aircraft for so many years.
Pinal Airpark: The last home of the Boeing 767
After its last trip to the USA, the Boeing 767 PH-OYJ landed at Pinal Airpark in Arizona. This airport has become a major destination for retired aircraft. Due to the region's hot and dry climate, which reduces corrosion and makes it easier to store the machines, Pinal Airpark is often used as a popular place for storing aircraft. In addition to storage, the airport also offers maintenance and modification services, so many former passenger aircraft can start a second career as cargo aircraft here.
It remains to be seen whether the Boeing 767 PH-OYJ will fly again or whether it will spend its retirement as a permanent exhibit at Pinal Airpark. What is certain, however, is that this aircraft type will be seen less and less in the coming years - at least in passenger service.
and 