Ryanair threatens to cut another one million seats in the Canary Islands and Spain
Ryanair’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, has warned that the airline could slash a further one million seats from its Spanish flight schedule for next summer unless AENA, Spain’s airport authority, reduces its airport charges.
Speaking to the Financial Times, O’Leary said he will return to Madrid in two weeks’ time, to “probably” confirm the reduction if no agreement is reached. This would be in addition to the one million cancelled for the upcoming winter season, in response to AENA’s 6.5% increase in airport fees.
Impact on the Canary Islands
Ryanair has already announced the closure of its base at Santiago, the cancellation of all flights to Vigo and Tenerife North, and reduced services in Asturias, Santander, Zaragoza, and the rest of the Canary Islands.
Unless rival airlines pick up the capacity, the total reduction in Spain’s air connectivity could reach 16%, significantly impacting both residents and domestic tourists.
For Tenerife, the uncertainty is particularly worrying. Staff at Tenerife North airport have expressed concern about job security, while passengers could face fewer options and higher prices on affected routes if cuts go ahead.
Government response
The Spanish government, which holds a 51% stake in AENA, has rejected Ryanair’s demands. Officials argue the increase amounts to just €0.68 per passenger and accuse the airline of “blackmail,” pointing out that Ryanair’s ticket prices rose by 21% last year, while the company reported profits of €820 million in the first quarter of the current financial year.
Consumer Affairs Minister Pablo Bustinduy, whose department fined Ryanair €107 million for “abusive practices,” described the airline’s approach as “a campaign of intimidation and open blackmail” which will not influence government policy.
What this means for travellers
For residents and holidaymakers in the Canary Islands, the ongoing dispute could result in:
- Reduced flight options: especially to and from regional airports such as Tenerife North.
- Higher fares: with fewer seats available, demand could push prices up.
- Less flexibility: fewer direct routes may force passengers to connect via mainland hubs.
Tourists planning trips for winter or summer 2026 are advised to book early, monitor airline announcements, and consider alternative carriers in case Ryanair proceeds with further cuts.
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