Jet2 Returns and Hotel Santamaria: Waves of Change in Blackpool Tourism

Eva Lund -

Blackpool’s aviation and hospitality sectors are experiencing a renaissance, heralding a new age for the town’s tourism landscape.

Blackpool Airport’s Revival

Blackpool Airport witnessed a historic moment as a Jet2 Boeing made a reminiscent touchdown, evoking nostalgic waves amongst the locals. According to ts2.tech, the return of a commercial-size jet, even on a special charter, has reignited hopes for a vibrant aviation future. Once a bustling public airport, today it thrives in niche markets, focusing on corporate jets and specialized charters.

Elevating Infrastructure: An Investment in Progress

Amidst this, Blackpool Airport’s strategic infrastructure developments, including a new terminal and expansive road projects, lay the groundwork for a rebirth not rooted in past holiday flights but promising a future for business and specialized aviation. These upgrades are pivotal, with the £18.5 million Vickers Way road promising to open new realms of opportunities.

Hotel Santamaria: A New Dawn

Seafront hospitality sees its own renaissance as Daish’s Hotel transforms into Hotel Santamaria. This rebranding comes after fluctuating fortunes, including hygiene violations. The new owners aim to polish its reputation and welcome guests to a refreshed experience.

The transformation hasn’t been without hiccups. The hotel transition spurred confusion, with cancellations affecting travelers’ holiday plans. However, proactive management by the new owners seeks to assure a seamless guest experience moving forward.

Future-Proofing Tourism: A Broader Vision

Blackpool’s ambitions echo through its £39.5 million Town Deal, transcending traditional tourism limits. The investments in leisure and educational projects aim to transform Blackpool into a year-round destination, ensuring its spot on the global tourism map.

Bridging to 2026: Optimism in Strategy

As the last month of 2025 unfolds, Blackpool stands poised on the brink of a promising horizon, where specialized aviation and hospitality rebranding play crucial roles in charting its future narrative. The connection between the newly arrived Jet2 flight and the reborn Hotel Santamaria symbolizes more than change—it heralds an era where tradition meets transformation, crafting a resilient tourism economy.

Together, these ventures set an example of how Blackpool isn’t just reminiscing its past glories but paving a path for a regenerated future—one plane and one hotel at a time.