Politicians want 75% airport parking discount for Canary Islands Residents
Politicians in the Canary Islands are calling for a 75% resident discount on airport parking, in the same way as they can get on flights, arguing that current prices amount to an “unfair toll” for islanders who rely on air travel.
The proposal, backed by several parties in the Canary Islands Parliament, would extend the existing 75% resident flight discount to car parks managed by AENA, which operates the airports across the archipelago.
Supporters of the measure argue that, unlike in mainland Spain, flying is not a luxury for Canary Islands residents but a necessity, whether for medical appointments, work commitments or family reasons.
Partido Popular (PP) MP Jacob Qadri described airport parking charges as a “compulsory toll”, claiming that in some cases “parking costs more than the plane ticket”.
The criticism has drawn broad backing across the regional chamber. Representatives from Nueva Canarias accused AENA of “squeezing” the islands with pricing that fails to reflect the reality of inter-island and mainland travel. Others questioned whether the airport operator would be willing to reduce fees, suggesting profitability takes precedence over affordability.
Even parties with differing political views labelled the situation a “rip-off”, noting that Canary Islands airports are among the most profitable in Spain’s national network.
Discount or free parking?
While most groups support some form of reduction, there is debate over whether parking should be discounted or made free altogether.
Some pointed out that parking at La Gomera airport is already free, highlighting inconsistencies between islands. Others argued that if airport parking is considered essential infrastructure, it should be treated as part of the wider transport chain, particularly in an outermost EU region where planes serve the role that trains or long-distance buses do on the mainland.
However, the PSOE criticised what it described as a “populist tone” to the proposal, noting that previous national governments had removed the initial free half-hour parking period at airports. They also suggested similar demands should be made for services under regional control, such as hospital car parks.
Growing pressure on Aena
The debate reflects wider concerns about the cost of living and mobility in the Canary Islands, where double insularity and geographic isolation make air travel unavoidable for many residents.
If approved, the proposal would apply the same 75% subsidy Canary Islanders already receive on flights to airport parking fees, significantly reducing the cost burden for frequent travellers.
For British residents living in the islands, any change could also ease costs when travelling to and from the UK, particularly for those who rely on airport parking for early departures or late arrivals.
AENA now faces increasing political pressure to review its pricing model, amid claims that current charges are disproportionate for a region where flying is a basic necessity rather than an optional extra.
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