Budget Airline Reduces Summer 2026 Capacity
Ryanair has announced it will cut 1.2 million seats to and from Spain for summer 2026, continuing a dispute with the country’s airport operator, AENA.
This follows the reduction of one million seats from its winter schedule last month, signaling ongoing tensions between the budget airline and Spanish airports.
Asturias Airport Flights Suspended
As part of the cuts, Ryanair will end all flights to and from Asturias Airport in northern Spain. The airline plans to reallocate capacity to larger Spanish airports and other European destinations where operating costs are lower.
Rising Airport Charges
The airline attributes the reductions to higher fees levied by AENA, particularly at regional airports, which Ryanair claims have become uncompetitive. In addition, the airline cited what it describes as “illegal” bag charges imposed on passengers as a key factor in its decision.
European Commission Ruling on Bag Fines
The European Commission ruled that fines levied by Spain on Ryanair and other low-cost carriers for charging extra fees on cabin bags breached EU regulations.
Last year, the Spanish consumer rights ministry fined Ryanair, easyJet, Norwegian, Vueling, and Volotea a combined €179 million (£155 million) for imposing charges on cabin luggage. The European Commission determined these fines violated EU air service laws, which guarantee airlines the freedom to set their own prices.
CEO Michael O’Leary Speaks
Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary said:
“We regret that these fee increases make regional Spanish airports uncompetitive, and this is why Ryanair is switching 1.2 million more seats away from regional airports in Spain in summer 2026.”
He added that while some seats will move to larger Spanish airports, most will be transferred to lower-cost competitor airports in Italy, Morocco, Croatia, Sweden, and Hungary.
Impact on Regional Airports
The seat reductions are expected to hit regional Spanish airports particularly hard, as they rely heavily on budget airlines for passenger traffic. Local authorities have expressed concern over potential economic impacts, including decreased tourism and reduced airport revenue.
Effect on Passengers
Passengers travelling from smaller Spanish cities may face fewer direct flight options. Analysts say the cuts could lead to higher fares on remaining routes due to reduced competition.
Broader Airline Tensions in Europe
The dispute reflects broader tensions between low-cost airlines and airport operators across Europe. Ryanair has previously clashed with airports over fees and operational costs in countries including Italy, Portugal, and Germany.
Historical Context on EU Airline Regulations
Under EU air service law, airlines have the freedom to set fares and fees, including optional charges for cabin luggage. The European Commission has increasingly monitored fines imposed by national authorities that may interfere with this principle.
Ryanair’s Strategy in Europe
Ryanair has been actively shifting capacity to more cost-effective airports, often outside Spain, to maintain profitability while avoiding high regional fees. The airline’s focus on secondary airports in neighboring countries allows it to keep ticket prices low and remain competitive with other low-cost carriers.
Implications for the Aviation Industry
Experts say the ruling may embolden airlines to contest excessive airport charges elsewhere in Europe. Airport operators may need to adjust pricing models to avoid losing carriers and traffic, particularly at regional locations.
Future Outlook
Ryanair’s summer 2026 schedule will see a reduction in connectivity for smaller Spanish cities, while larger hubs like Madrid and Barcelona are likely to benefit from increased seat allocations.
Industry analysts warn that this trend could reshape regional air travel in Spain, forcing smaller airports to negotiate more favorable terms with airlines or risk long-term decline.
Economic Impact
The shift may affect local economies dependent on tourism and business travel. Regions with limited flight options could see reduced hotel bookings, lower retail revenue, and decreased airport employment.
Monitoring and Updates
Both Ryanair and AENA are expected to continue negotiations as the summer 2026 schedule approaches. M10News will provide updates on developments, regulatory rulings, and any further changes to flight schedules.