Tui is to put an extra two million seats into the market next year as it moves to fill the void left by Thomas Cook.
The massive capacity increase will cover Turkey, Greece, Balearics, Canaries, Egypt, Mexico and Florida. The two million seats is just under the 2.4 million Atol-protected capacity left when Thomas Cook collapsed.
Tui said it would offer more 7, 10, 11 and 14-night durations and “even more flights” from Manchester, Doncaster Sheffield, Birmingham, Newcastle and Glasgow.
Tui Airways will also create jobs for more than 100 pilots and 200 cabin crew.
Andrew Flintham, managing director Tui UK and Ireland, said: “At Tui we’re committed to offering outstanding holidays, flown from local airports to popular holiday hot spots.
“We understand the importance of providing great flexibility and choice, and recognise the need for customers to spread the cost of their holidays with 0% deposit and direct debit payments.
“The customer is at the heart of everything we do, and this additional growth demonstrates our continued commitment for people to discover their smile with us.”
Dawn Wilson, Tui Airways managing director said: “We are delighted that our additional flying allows us to grow our team of ‘moment makers’ at Tui Airways.
“Every year we welcome new cabin crew and pilots, and this year is set to be our biggest and best yet. I’m particularly proud to be able to commit to offering over 50 Thomas Cook captains the opportunity to join Tui Airways and continue to fly customers on their holidays.”
Pilots union Balpa has praised Tui for reaching out to ex-Thomas Cook pilots.
General secretary Brian Strutton said: “Balpa has worked closely with Tui Airways on its expansion plans, and we are really pleased that so many new jobs have been earmarked for former Thomas Cook pilots.
“Tui is achieving its business growth in a morally responsible way and Balpa is pleased to support them.”