Published: 22 April 2025
Ryanair, Europe’s largest budget airline, has issued a warning that it may implement further cuts to its services in Spain if the country’s airport operator, Aena, does not reconsider recent increases in airport fees. This warning follows a significant scaling back of Ryanair’s operations at several regional airports across Spain.
The Irish airline has already announced reductions at seven airports including Jerez, Valladolid, and Castellón, citing a 4.09% rise in fees imposed by Aena. This decision has resulted in a reduction of over 800,000 passenger seats for the 2025 summer season. Popular routes from the UK, such as London Stansted to Jerez, have been suspended, affecting thousands of British holidaymakers.
Impact on Travellers
The announcement has sparked concern among passengers planning holidays to Spain this year. The reductions are likely to lead to fewer available seats and, consequently, higher fares. Industry experts warn that budget-friendly options may become increasingly limited if Ryanair continues to pull back on routes, especially from smaller UK airports that rely heavily on low-cost carriers.
Ryanair has called on Aena to reverse the fee hike, claiming it undermines regional tourism and contradicts Spain’s efforts to rebuild international travel after the pandemic. The airline argues that affordable connectivity is vital for regional economies and tourism-dependent communities.
Ryanair’s Broader Route Restructuring
The move in Spain mirrors similar decisions Ryanair has made in other parts of Europe. The airline recently pulled out of Paris-Vatry and Bordeaux airports due to what it described as “excessive fees and unsustainable operating costs.” The company’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, reiterated the airline’s strategy of prioritising cost-efficient hubs, especially during a period of high inflation and increasing fuel costs.
Spanish Authorities Respond
Aena has defended the fee adjustments, stating that the increases are necessary to recover infrastructure investments and maintain service quality across the country’s airports. Spanish tourism officials have yet to comment on the potential economic impact, though local governments in affected regions have expressed concern about the knock-on effect on tourism revenue and employment.
What Travellers Should Do
Travellers who have already booked flights with Ryanair to affected destinations are advised to monitor their emails and the airline’s app for updates. In the event of cancellations, Ryanair typically offers rebooking or full refunds. Holidaymakers are also encouraged to consider alternative airports or carriers and to purchase travel insurance that covers cancellations.
Ryanair’s warning serves as a reminder of the fragile state of Europe’s aviation sector and the delicate balance between cost recovery for airports and affordable travel access for the public. As negotiations continue, passengers are urged to book early, monitor developments, and remain flexible in their travel planning.
For continued updates, visit TravelZine.co.uk and follow Ryanair’s official communication channels.
