TUI has named a new Boeing 737-8 “Varna”, turning the Bulgarian coastal city into a flying ambassador for the country’s Black Sea coast.
The aircraft will carry Varna’s name across TUI’s
international route network, highlighting the destination’s beaches, seaside
resorts, cultural diversity and value for money.
The aircraft’s godfather is Bulgarian Minister of Tourism Dr
Ilin Dimitrov, who joined TUI executives and airport representatives for the
naming ceremony.
“Bulgaria is an exciting rising star in the European holiday
market. Families in particular are increasingly discovering Bulgaria’s Black
Sea coast for themselves. By naming our Boeing ‘Varna’, we are making a visible
commitment to the growing importance of this destination within the TUI
portfolio,” said Marco Ciomperlik, Chief Operating Officer of TUI Group.
“Today, Varna spreads wings. The name of our seaside capital
will soar across Europe as an ambassador for Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Black
Sea coast. This is a symbol of our strong partnership with TUI and a
recognition of our potential as a modern and attractive destination. Our goal
is to develop air connectivity and enable more and more European tourists to
discover Bulgaria. We thank TUI for their trust – together, we are opening up
our country even further to Europe”, said Dr Ilin Dimitrov, Minister of
Tourism.
TUI Airline has increased capacity to Bulgaria this year in
response to continued demand for holidays along the Black Sea.
The regions around Varna and Golden Sands, as well as Burgas
and Sunny Beach, remain particularly popular with families seeking long
beaches, all-inclusive accommodation and competitive prices.
“Today marks a special milestone for Varna Airport and our
long-standing partnership with TUI. We are proud that the aircraft being named
today will carry the name “Varna” - a meaningful gesture and a historic moment
for the city and our airport. We are delighted that such an important partner
has chosen our airport for this aircraft naming ceremony. With the new
incentive scheme - a programme designed to stimulate air connectivity -
recently approved by the national authorities, we will be able to offer additional
opportunities for airlines and tour operators. We are confident that this will
help us attract even more passengers to the Bulgarian Black Sea airports in
Varna and Burgas in the years ahead”, said Michael Reusch - CEO of Fraport Twin
Star Airport Management AD.
TUI has continued expanding its Bulgarian hotel and
experience portfolio, with the GRIFID Noa Hotel in Varna among its bestsellers.
The hotel is also hosting TUI’s annual Senior Leadership
Team Meeting this year.
The Boeing 737-8 is among the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft in its class, reflecting TUI fly’s continued investment in fleet modernisation and more sustainable aviation. -TTN