Tour operators reject proposed airport charges on private coaches
Travel agencies and tour operators in the Canary Islands have spoken out against a proposal by airport operator AENA to charge private coaches for entering and waiting at the islands’ airports. The sector warns that the measure would massively increase operating costs and could put added pressure on an industry that is vital to the local economy.
The Canary Islands Association of Travel Agencies and Tour Operators (ACAVyT) says the plan would make private coaches pay parking-style fees based on how long they remain at the airport, similar to the rates charged to private cars. The association estimates this could cost up to €6,000 per coach each month. It also points out that most tourism contracts for the 2025–26 season have already been signed, meaning companies have no way to pass these extra costs on to customers.
ACAVyT warns that these new fixed costs would further reduce already tight profit margins for transport companies. As a result, some businesses could be forced to cut services or reduce their fleets. The association says tour operators and travel agencies, which include airport transfers in package holidays, would see their costs rise across the board. This, they argue, could make the Canary Islands less competitive than other holiday destinations and eventually discourage visitors.
The group also points out the risk for smaller local operators, who may struggle to absorb the extra expense. Without the ability to quickly adjust prices, losses could build up, affecting route planning and putting strain on agreements with hotels and other tourism providers.
ACAVyT has also raised environmental concerns, arguing that charging high-capacity shared coaches goes against efforts to promote sustainable tourism and reduce emissions. The association notes that the Canary Islands are working to align their tourism model with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda, which encourages greener travel and more efficient transport.
According to the association, the proposed fees could have the opposite effect by discouraging the use of shared coaches. With no realistic alternatives for vehicles waiting outside airport areas, ACAVyT warns that airports could face congestion, potentially leaving large numbers of passengers delayed or stranded.
For all these reasons, ACAVyT is calling on both the Canary Islands Government and Spain’s national authorities to stop the proposal. Instead, it is urging the adoption of a pricing system that protects the wider interests of the islands and supports the full tourism chain, especially travel agencies that play a key role in bringing visitors to the Canary Islands.
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