London, October 13, 2025 — Leading travel giant TUI has announced the launch of a trailblazing Cabin Crew Apprenticeship Programme, the first of its kind among major UK-based airlines. The new initiative, set to begin in March 2026, aims to fast-track aviation careers for young people while addressing the industry’s growing need for skilled cabin crew members.
Working in collaboration with the UK Government, TUI has redesigned the traditional 12-month aviation apprenticeship model, shortening it to an eight-month intensive programme that combines academic learning with hands-on flying experience.
Applications open on October 22, 2025, for 16 candidates aged 18 and above.
A New Pathway into Aviation Careers
The Level 3 apprenticeship programme is designed to create a faster, more accessible route into aviation for aspiring professionals. Participants will receive comprehensive induction training and in-flight operational experience, with their flying duties running from May to October 2026.
While post-apprenticeship contracts are not guaranteed, graduates will be eligible to apply for permanent TUI cabin crew positions, giving them a competitive advantage through real-world experience and formal certification.
Marsha Myles, TUI’s Emerging Talent and Apprenticeship Manager, described the new scheme as a breakthrough for both the company and the wider aviation sector:
“Securing a shorter, streamlined apprenticeship is a game-changer — not just for TUI, but for the future of aviation. This initiative opens doors for young people, offering a faster, more accessible path into an exciting and global career.”
Government Endorsement for Future-Ready Workforce
The programme has earned praise from Aviation Minister Keir Mather, who called it “a major step forward in building a highly skilled, future-ready workforce.”
The Government’s involvement highlights the UK’s commitment to advancing vocational training in aviation, particularly as airlines rebuild post-pandemic and competition for qualified crew intensifies.
TUI’s partnership with government agencies has been pivotal in redesigning the apprenticeship framework — allowing participants to earn while they learn, gain flight experience, and qualify within a shorter timeframe than traditional routes.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Young Professionals
This TUI cabin crew apprenticeship offers more than just technical skills. It equips participants with:
- Customer service excellence training tailored to the airline’s global standards.
- Safety and emergency procedures certification.
- Exposure to real-world aviation environments.
- Career development support for post-programme opportunities within TUI and across the aviation sector.
With the programme launching in March 2026, apprentices will be trained during the first quarter and join active flights by May 2026, gaining valuable seasonal experience through the peak summer travel period.
A Boost for the UK Aviation Industry
The aviation industry is undergoing a major workforce transformation, driven by increased demand for skilled staff and the need to modernize training pipelines. By introducing this trailblazing apprenticeship, TUI positions itself as a leader in talent development, helping bridge the gap between education and employment.
Industry experts see the move as a model that could inspire other UK airlines to follow suit, expanding apprenticeship opportunities in a sector long dominated by degree-based recruitment.
TUI’s programme aligns with its broader sustainability and workforce diversity goals, ensuring that young professionals from different backgrounds can access meaningful, long-term aviation careers.
Final Thoughts
As global travel rebounds and airlines gear up for record passenger numbers in 2026, initiatives like TUI’s cabin crew apprenticeship could play a vital role in shaping the next generation of aviation professionals.
With its fast-track structure, government backing, and focus on real-world training, TUI’s programme marks a turning point in how airlines cultivate future talent — making the dream of flying a reality for many young Britons.
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