Ryanair has announced that it will remove nearly one million seats from its Spain winter schedule due to a planned 6.5% increase in airport charges by Spanish airport operator Aena. The fee hike, which would raise the average airport charge to €11.03 per passenger, has been deemed “unjustified and harmful” by Ryanair’s CEO, Eddie Wilson. The airline argues that Spain’s fees are already uncompetitive compared to other European countries, and the increase will make many regional routes unviable.
As a result, Ryanair will significantly reduce its capacity in Spain, particularly at regional airports. The airline will fully withdraw from Jerez and Valladolid airports, move a based aircraft out of Santiago airport, and reduce flying at Vigo, Zaragoza, Asturias, and Santander airports. The airline plans to redeploy its aircraft and crews to more cost-efficient airports in countries like Italy, Sweden, and Hungary.
The cuts will disproportionately impact regional airports and smaller destinations, potentially isolating communities that depend on tourism and air connectivity. Ryanair warns that the long-term economic consequences could be severe, particularly for regional communities heavily dependent on tourism. The airline contributes approximately €28 billion to Spain’s gross domestic product, making it a significant economic force in the country.
The decision comes as Spain posts record visitor numbers, with 11 million international arrivals in July and record monthly spending. The reduction in seats is likely to lead to higher fares and reduced connectivity for regional communities. The airline’s move has sparked a debate about the balance between infrastructure funding and regional connectivity, with Aena’s chairman, Maurici Lucena, accusing Ryanair of trying to dictate airport charges and prioritize its own interests.
