The potential return of capacity could have direct implications for connectivity. Photo credit: Markus Mainka/shutterstock
Ryanair has indicated it could restore capacity at Spanish regional airports if the national airport operator Aena implements tariff recommendations issued by Spain’s competition authority, the National Commission for Markets and Competition (CNMC). The airline links its future regional operations to the outcome of a broader regulatory dispute over airport charges under Aena’s next five-year pricing framework, known as DORA III.
The position comes amid ongoing disagreement over how Spanish airport charges should evolve during the 2027–2031 regulatory period, with airlines and regulators taking contrasting views on pricing levels and their impact on connectivity.
CNMC proposal at the centre of dispute
At the heart of the disagreement is the CNMC’s recommendation that Aena reduce airport charges over the 2027–2031 regulatory period. The proposal suggests an average annual reduction of approximately 0.59 per cent in charges, a position that contrasts with Aena’s own proposal, which points towards increases in airport fees over the same period.
The CNMC argues that a more restrained pricing path would better reflect demand conditions and maintain competitiveness across Spain’s airport network. Aena, which manages the majority of Spanish airports, has defended the need for higher charges to support infrastructure investment and operational costs.
This divergence has created a policy gap that airlines are closely watching, particularly low-cost carriers with significant exposure to regional routes.
Ryanair ties capacity to lower airport fees
Ryanair has stated it would restore capacity previously withdrawn from Spanish regional airports if Aena follows the CNMC’s recommended tariff trajectory. The airline has consistently linked its network decisions in Spain to airport fee levels, arguing that cost reductions are necessary to sustain or expand regional operations.
Ryanair has repeatedly maintained in its public communications that higher airport charges undermine the viability of smaller Spanish airports, which tend to generate thinner margins and rely more heavily on low-cost carriers to maintain connectivity.
While the airline has not published a formal route reinstatement plan, its position suggests that pricing outcomes under DORA III will be a determining factor in whether previously reduced or suspended services are reinstated.
Which regional airports could see Ryanair return
Although Ryanair has not released a definitive list tied to this specific statement, the airline’s recent capacity reductions in Spain have largely affected smaller and mid-sized regional airports rather than major hubs. Airports that have historically seen Ryanair route reductions or capacity trimming include:
- Jerez Airport
- Valladolid Airport
- Santiago de Compostela Airport (partial reductions in certain periods)
- Zaragoza Airport
- Santander Airport
- Asturias Airport
- Girona Airport (fluctuating capacity depending on season and base strategy)
Any recovery of capacity would likely focus on airports where Ryanair previously maintained strong seasonal or base operations but scaled back due to cost and demand considerations.
Impact for residents and tourism
For residents in regional areas, the potential return of capacity could have direct implications for connectivity. Reduced services in recent years have limited direct international links from smaller airports, often requiring passengers to travel to Madrid, Barcelona or other larger hubs.
A restoration of routes could:
- Improve access to European destinations from regional Spain
- Reduce reliance on connecting flights through major airports
- Support inbound tourism outside of major cities
- Increase competition on certain leisure routes, potentially affecting fares
Tourism operators in coastal and secondary destinations would also likely benefit, particularly in regions where air access is a key driver of seasonal visitor numbers.
However, the outcome remains contingent on regulatory and commercial conditions. Ryanair’s position suggests that any expansion would be conditional rather than guaranteed, depending on whether airport charges move in line with CNMC recommendations or remain closer to Aena’s proposed structure.
Wider significance for Spain’s aviation market
The dispute over DORA III reflects a broader tension in Spain’s aviation sector between cost control, infrastructure funding and airline competitiveness. Aena’s pricing strategy affects not only airline network planning but also regional economic development, particularly in areas heavily dependent on tourism.
The CNMC’s intervention highlights the regulator’s role in balancing these interests, while airlines such as Ryanair continue to emphasise cost sensitivity in their operational decisions.
As the regulatory framework for 2027–2031 is finalised, the outcome is expected to shape airline strategy across Spain’s regional airport network for years to come, influencing both route availability and passenger choice.
