Ryanair’s Spanish stand-off: Are summer holidays about to take a nosedive?Credit: Shutterstock, robert coolen
Holidaymakers heading for sunny Spain could soon find themselves caught in some serious turbulence
The so-called ‘war of words’ between Spain’s government and budget carrier Ryanair could leave passengers and tourists feeling the pinch.
Flights in short supply as Ryanair pulls thousands of seats from 2025 schedule
Low-cost flights to and from Spanish airports could be scarcer than sangria at a dry party this summer. Ryanair has reportedly pulled thousands of seats from its 2025 schedule as part of its ongoing clash with the country’s aviation authorities.
Here’s the spicy rub: Ryanair accuses Spanish airport operator Aena of slapping on ‘excessive’ fees. Aena, on the other hand, says Ryanair is engaging in ‘blackmail’ by trying to secure free rein in its airports. Meanwhile, the Spanish government has taken a firm stance, criticising what it calls ‘abusive practices’ by the airline – particularly over baggage fees and other extra charges.
800,000 seats less for the Spanish market on Ryanair flights
With about 800,000 fewer Ryanair seats in the Spanish market – some 18% of its usual operations – this travel tango isn’t just hot air. Jerez and Valladolid are being axed from the airline’s schedules altogether, leaving these regions without any Ryanair connections.
Winners or losers? Are there any winners here, or is it a lose-lose? ¡Ay, caramba!
Sunny Spain could still beckon for dedicated sun-seekers, but if Ryanair and the Spanish authorities don’t bury the hatchet soon, the only thing soaring could be the cost of your summer getaway. Watch this space – summer 2025 might just be heading for a bumpy landing!
Read more news in English from around Spain.
Get more news about living in Spain today.
