Birmingham Airport has announced its first-ever direct flights to Banjul, The Gambia, offering holidaymakers a new winter sun destination just over six hours away. The weekly Monday service will commence on 2 November 2026, providing an alternative to long-haul destinations like the Caribbean or Thailand.
Route Details and Pricing
The new route, operated by TUI, will depart from Birmingham Airport every Monday. Package holidays start from £800 per person, including flights, accommodation, transfers, luggage, and all-inclusive food and drink. The flight time is approximately six hours, making it a convenient option for those seeking guaranteed sunshine without the lengthy travel times associated with other tropical destinations.
Destination Highlights
Banjul is the capital city of The Gambia, a small West African country bordered by Senegal. Known as the "Smiling Coast of Africa," it is famous for its friendly locals, laid-back vibe, and beautiful beaches. While Banjul itself offers a low-key beach, nearby resort areas like Kololi and Senegambia boast extensive, palm-fringed sands and water sports. The Senegambia Strip is a popular hotspot with bars, restaurants, and live music.
Winter Sun Appeal
The Gambia enjoys year-round sunshine, with temperatures averaging around 30°C between November and April, making it an ideal escape from the grey winter skies in the UK. Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK, said: "We know Brits are looking for winter sun that delivers great value without the long flight times, and destinations like The Gambia are seeing real growth as a result. You can be on the beach in just over six hours, enjoy guaranteed sunshine, and with a TUI package holiday everything’s included from flights, accommodation, transfers, luggage, food and drink making it an easy, great-value alternative to traditional long-haul hotspots."
Airport and TUI Comments
Matt Hazelwood, Chief Commercial Officer at Birmingham Airport, added: "We are delighted to welcome The Gambia back to our list of direct destinations with TUI. This popular winter sun getaway is easily accessible from Birmingham Airport, offering beautiful sandy beaches, stunning scenery, and nature reserves rich in Gambian wildlife, all just a six-hour flight from BHX."
The new route joins TUI’s existing Gambia departures from London Gatwick and Manchester Airports, expanding options for travelers from the Midlands.
