Published on
September 4, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
Ryanair has announced a dramatic reduction in its capacity in Spain for the upcoming winter season, following a hefty airport fee hike by Aena, Spain’s state-owned airport operator. The airline will slash its operations by 41% across Spain and cut 10% of its services in the Canary Islands. This will result in the loss of over a million seats and the cancellation of 36 regional routes.
Vigo and Tenerife Among the Hardest Hit
One of the most significant changes involves the cancellation of flights to Vigo, effective January 1, 2026, and Tenerife North, starting with the 2025 winter season. These cancellations mark a stark cut in Ryanair’s regional presence in Spain, significantly impacting travelers who rely on these routes for affordable, convenient flights.
Regional Airports Bear the Brunt of the Cuts
Ryanair will also reduce its operations at several regional airports in Spain. Zaragoza will see a massive 45% reduction in capacity, while Santander, Asturias, and Vitoria will experience cuts of 38%, 16%, and 2%, respectively. These reductions signal that Ryanair is rethinking its presence in Spain’s regional hubs as operating costs rise, particularly with Aena’s planned fee hike.
Aena’s Fee Hike Sparks Outrage from Ryanair
Ryanair blames Aena’s 6.6% increase in airport charges for making many regional routes in Spain unsustainable by 2026. The airline’s leadership has slammed Aena for its “monopolistic” behavior, claiming the fee hikes push them to relocate their flights to more cost-effective airports in other European countries, including Italy, Morocco, Croatia, Sweden, and Hungary.
Airline Moves Operations to More Efficient Airports
In response to the rising charges in Spain, Ryanair plans to move its operations to airports abroad where operating costs are lower. These strategic moves aim to ensure that Ryanair remains competitive in the low-cost carrier market while maintaining its ability to offer affordable travel to passengers.
Aena Defends Fee Increases Amidst Criticism
Aena has defended its decision to hike airport fees, arguing that the increase is necessary to improve Spain’s airport infrastructure and services. The airport operator dismissed Ryanair’s claims, suggesting that the airline is simply transferring flights to airports where it can charge higher ticket prices.
Impact on Regional Connectivity and Travelers
Ryanair’s decision to reduce capacity in Spain, particularly at regional airports, will severely impact connectivity for many travelers. Fewer flights and the cancellation of key routes like Vigo and Tenerife will limit travel options for passengers and could lead to higher prices, undermining the affordability of regional air travel in Spain.
Ryanair’s Commitment to Spain Remains, But the Future is Uncertain
Despite the cuts, Ryanair has stressed that it remains committed to Spain. However, the airline’s future operations in the country will depend on the sustainability of Aena’s fee structure. The airline has made it clear that continued investments in Spanish airports, where growth is stifled by high charges, are no longer justifiable.
The Changing Landscape of European Aviation
With increasing airport fees in Spain and France, low-cost carriers like Ryanair are increasingly looking to adjust their operations. The shift of capacity to countries with lower operating costs could reshape the European aviation market, with airlines prioritizing cost control and efficient operations to stay competitive.
In conclusion, Ryanair’s bold decision to slash capacity in Spain and cancel routes is a direct response to Aena’s fee hike and reflects the airline’s broader strategy to manage rising operating costs. The move will have lasting effects on regional air travel in Spain, leaving passengers with fewer options and higher ticket prices in the future.
