Ryanair has announced significant cuts to its winter 2025-2026 schedule, removing 24 routes across Europe amid disputes over airport fees and taxes. The affected destinations include Spain, Portugal, France and Germany, with the airline withdrawing entirely from some airports.
The largest reductions affect Portugal, where Ryanair has ended all six routes to and from the Azores, affecting around 400,000 passengers annually. This represents a 22 per cent cut in Portuguese capacity. The airline cited higher air traffic control fees imposed by operator ANA (Vinci) and EU taxes, including the Emissions Trading System, which it claims unfairly penalise short-haul flights.
In Spain, Ryanair is cutting 1.2 million seats from its summer 2026 schedule, following a reduction of one million seats in winter 2025. All flights to Asturias and Vigo will stop, and the airline will close its base at Santiago de Compostela. Capacity to Santander, Zaragoza and Girona will also be reduced.
Speaking to ITV News, chief executive Michael O'Leary warned that if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked due to the Iran conflict, aviation fuel shortages could force European carriers to cancel 5-10 per cent of flights during May, June and July. He urged passengers to book summer holidays quickly, as disruption would be unpredictable.
Ryanair has also cut routes to France and Germany, citing increased aviation taxes. The airline estimates the overall cuts will reduce capacity by around three million seats. O'Leary criticised airport monopolies for raising fees, while ANA denied abuse claims and said dialogue remained open.
