Ryanair, the low-cost airline, has announced significant reductions to its summer schedule in Spain, cutting 12 routes and 800,000 seats. The airline has completely halted operations from two Spanish airports and reduced flights at five others, citing “excessive fees” and “insufficient incentives” imposed by Spain’s airport authority, AENA.
During a press conference, Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson criticized AENA’s policies as “ineffective” and misaligned with the Spanish government’s goals of boosting traffic at regional airports. Wilson argued that AENA’s high fees and lack of incentives are harming regional airports, stifling their growth and competitiveness. He emphasized that these policies are driving traffic away from Spain to more cost-effective destinations such as Sweden, Croatia, Hungary, and Morocco.
Ryanair has completely withdrawn from Jerez (Cádiz) and Valladolid airports. Additionally, the airline has reduced its presence at Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, Zaragoza, Asturias, and Santander. The company described these cuts as “entirely avoidable” and stated that it has reduced its capacity at regional airports by 18% for the upcoming summer season.
In response, AENA dismissed Ryanair’s claims as “false,” asserting that the airline’s demands could be illegal. AENA highlighted that regional airports already offer incentives, with fees as low as €2 per passenger. The authority accused Ryanair of focusing on larger airports, where no discounts are available, rather than supporting regional growth.
Wilson also criticized the Spanish government for imposing a €107 million fine on the airline, calling it a “ridiculous decision.” He warned that if the fine is upheld, it could lead to higher ticket prices for passengers, undermining the government’s efforts to promote affordable air travel.
The reduction in Ryanair’s operations is expected to limit air travel options in several Spanish regions, potentially impacting local tourism and economies. The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between airlines and airport authorities over fees and incentives, with regional airports bearing the brunt of the fallout.
