Ryanair is implementing a significant reduction in flights to Girona airport in Spain for the upcoming summer season, marking the first such decline since the pre-Covid-19 era. The capacity at Girona is expected to drop by 11 per cent between March and October, with the airline currently operating 34 routes to 13 countries from this popular holiday hub.
Airline Blames Flawed Airport Charges System
The budget carrier attributes these cuts to what it describes as a 'flawed airport charges system' managed by Spain's airport operator, Aena. Since 2024, Aena has increased fees by 10 per cent, and Ryanair has expressed strong opposition to a proposal that could see further hikes of up to 21 per cent by 2031.
Potential Impacts on Connectivity and Economy
Ryanair has warned that these fee increases could severely damage air connectivity, negatively affect tourism, and lead to job losses across Spain. The airline has called on the CNMC (Spain's National Markets and Competition Commission) and the Ministry of Transport to reject Aena's planned price rises, emphasising the broader economic consequences.
In a statement, Ryanair indicated its willingness to expand operations at Girona if airport costs become more competitive and lower. This move highlights the ongoing tension between airlines and airport operators over pricing structures in the post-pandemic travel landscape.
