Ryanair is set to remove one million seats from its winter schedule to and from Spanish airports, in a move that underscores growing tensions between the airline and Spain’s state-run airport operator, AENA.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Europa Press, Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson confirmed the cuts, blaming the Spanish government’s “indifference” and a recently approved 6.5% increase in passenger fees due to take effect in 2026. The hike will raise the per-passenger charge to €11.03, a figure Wilson says will further undermine the viability of regional airports already operating at low capacity.
“It seems the government is happy to let regional airports wither,” Wilson said. “Without urgent action, Spain risks losing more capacity and investment while competitors prosper.”
The airline, which remains Spain’s largest by passenger volume, has long criticised AENA’s pricing model and lack of targeted incentives. Wilson described the current structure as “broken,” noting that many regional airports operate at just 30% occupancy. “If these were hotels, they’d already be closed,” he added.
Ryanair is calling for a radical rethink, including the transfer of airport management to regional authorities or outright privatisation. Wilson argues that without reform, Spain’s smaller hubs will continue to lose connectivity, jobs, and tourism revenue.
This latest reduction follows a January announcement in which Ryanair cut 800,000 seats across 12 Spanish routes, citing “excessive charges” and ineffective incentive schemes.
For UK business travellers, the cuts may mean fewer direct options to Spain’s secondary cities, with increased reliance on major hubs like Madrid and Barcelona. Travelling For Business will continue to monitor developments and their impact on corporate mobility across Europe.