Tui Airways’ inaugural flight from Birmingham to Singapore’s Changi airport took off on Wednesday (December 13), carrying customers for sister brand Marella Cruises.
The service from Birmingham is also the only non-stop route from the Midlands city to Singapore, with other airlines serving Singapore Changi via London or Manchester.
The weekly flights on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner will exclusively serve Marella Cruises’ customers heading to Singapore to sail onboard Marella Discovery 2 for winter 2023-24.
It will be the first time that Marella Cruises has homeported in Singapore, with the itineraries including an overnight stay in the city state.
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The ship will call at destinations such as Phu My in Vietnam; Malacca, Langkawi and Penang in Malaysia; and Laem Chabang in Thailand.
Tui will also be flying Marella passengers to Singapore from Gatwick and Manchester airports.
The last flight of the season will depart Birmingham on April 3, 2024, and resume for next winter on December 11, 2024.
Chris Hackney, managing director at Marella Cruises, said: “The inaugural flight from Birmingham airport to Singapore marks an exciting new chapter for our customers based in the Midlands, who now have more choice and flexibility when it comes to choosing their dream cruise.
“Our Asia itineraries mean that customers can be exploring tropical islands one day, and buzzing cities the next, and we’re excited to be offering all the region has to offer to those flying from Birmingham airport.”
Adam Parker, senior aviation manager at Birmingham airport, added: “We are delighted that Tui has started flying from BHX to Singapore to cater for its Midland-based cruise customers.
“This investment represents Tui’s confidence in BHX and the Midlands region, and its commitment to providing more options for customers.
“Tui offers numerous sunshine destinations direct from Birmingham airport. The addition of this direct long-haul service to Singapore to connect with Marella Cruises gives our customers even greater choice.”