Santiago Airport to Close for Runway Resurfacing in May
Santiago-Rosalia de Castro airport, a key aviation hub in northern Spain, is scheduled to shut down for five weeks this spring to facilitate essential runway construction works. The closure will be in effect from 23 April to 27 May 2026, during which all air traffic, including take-offs and landings, will be suspended.
Impact on Airlines and Passengers
The airport, located near Santiago de Compostela, is the busiest in Galicia and the second-busiest in northern Spain. It serves numerous airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, and Vueling. Hundreds of flights are expected to be affected, particularly during the May half-term period, causing significant travel disruption for holidaymakers.
Airport operator Aena has advised passengers to contact their airlines directly for updates on flight status, schedule changes, or rebooking options. In a statement, Aena said: “If you have any questions about your flight status, schedule changes, or possible rebooking, we recommend contacting your airline.”
Nationwide Airport Strikes Add to Travel Woes
Compounding the disruption, Spain is facing severe travel chaos due to an “indefinite” strike by airport ground staff across the country. Industrial action began on 30 March 2026 and involves employees from companies like Groundforce and Menzies, who are protesting over ongoing pay disputes.
The strikes are affecting 12 major airports, including:
- Barcelona
- Madrid
- Alicante
- Palma
- Ibiza
- Malaga
- Canary Islands
Partial work stoppages are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during specific time slots: 5-7am, 11am-5pm, and 10pm-midnight. Aena has issued a notice urging travellers to check with their airlines for flight status updates, stating: “Groundforce staff have called an indefinite strike starting 30 March. Please contact the airline to find out the status of your flight.”
This combination of airport closures and strikes highlights a challenging period for air travel in Spain, with widespread implications for both domestic and international passengers.
