TUI Launches Inaugural Flights to Luxor, a New Gateway to Egypt's Historic Wonders

TUI Airways started direct flights from the UK to Luxor, Egypt, on 7 November 2024, with services from Manchester Airport and London Gatwick. The launch came alongside the first sailings of TUI River Cruises' new Nile ship, the TUI Al Horeya. This page sets out what the route offers and what to know when planning a trip.

The route

According to TUI's press release, the new flights operated on Thursdays from both Manchester and Gatwick, giving two flights a week between the UK and Luxor in total. The first season was scheduled to run until 24 April 2025. TUI described these as the only direct, non-stop UK flights to Luxor. For Manchester Airport it was the first direct connection to the city, according to Lucie Hinton, the airport's Head of Aviation Business Development.

Direct flights matter because Luxor was previously reached mainly through Cairo or with a charter from a small number of UK airports. A direct flight takes roughly five hours and avoids a long transfer. Check TUI for the current schedule, as seasonal routes can change from one year to the next.

The Nile cruise

The TUI Al Horeya is a refurbished five-star river ship offering seven-night, all-inclusive round-trip sailings from Luxor. It has single, standard and suite cabins. Katy Berzins, Head of TUI River Cruises, said the launch marked the start of what the company hoped would be a thriving river cruise line. TUI also offers Luxor package holidays with hotels in and around the city, including the Hilton Luxor, and winter sun stays in nearby Hurghada.

Prices depend on the date, cabin type and departure airport, so treat any quoted price as a snapshot. Press coverage around launch quoted different lead-in prices on different dates, which shows how much they vary.

Why Luxor appeals

• Ancient sites: the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak complex and Luxor Temple are all close to the city.
• Winter weather: the Egyptian winter is dry and warm, which suits sightseeing, while summers are very hot.
• River itineraries: the Nile gives access to temple towns such as Esna and Edfu on a cruise.

Planning tips

• Check passport validity and Egypt's current visa requirements for your nationality before booking.
• Read the UK government's travel advice for Egypt, which is updated for specific regions.
• Compare package prices with separate flights and hotels, as the cost difference varies by season.
• If you plan a private transfer or charter, look at the charter operators and chauffeur services in our directory.

What it shows about airline planning

Holiday airlines add routes where they can combine flights, hotels and cruises in a single package, so the route is tied to a product. That improves load factors and gives the airline more control over demand. For airports, a new leisure route increases the number of destinations and brings opportunities for ground handling and airport services. Browse more airlines and travel companies in the directory.

What to see around Luxor

• Valley of the Kings: on the west bank of the Nile, this is the burial site of New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, with decorated tombs open to visitors.
• Temple of Hatshepsut: a terraced mortuary temple built into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari.
• Karnak Temple Complex: a huge group of temples on the east bank, known for its Great Hypostyle Hall.
• Luxor Temple: in the city centre, and lit up in the evening.
• Colossi of Memnon: two large seated statues on the west bank, easily visited on a morning tour.

Most tours cover the west bank in the morning, before the heat builds, and the east bank temples in the afternoon or evening.

Frequently asked questions

Which UK airports fly to Luxor with TUI?

Manchester and London Gatwick launched the service in November 2024.

How long is the Nile cruise?

Seven nights, all-inclusive, starting and ending in Luxor.

Are the flights year-round?

The first season ran from November 2024 to April 2025. Check TUI for later seasons.