AENA Rejects Canary Islands’ Request to Halt Airport Fee Increases

The Spanish airport operator Aena has officially rejected the Canary Islands Government’s request to exempt the archipelago’s airports from a planned 6.5% increase in airport charges. This increase is set to take effect in March 2026, raising concerns among local authorities and residents alike.

Details of the Fee Increase

The announcement regarding the fee hike was made by Pablo Rodríguez, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Public Works, Housing and Mobility, during a parliamentary session held on Friday. Rodríguez confirmed that Aena has formally replied to the government’s letter, but he noted that the Ministry of Transport has yet to issue any response to the situation. This lack of communication has left many in the region anxious about the implications of the fee increase.

According to Rodríguez, Aena justified its decision by citing its legal authority to update or raise airport fees, a process that is subject to oversight by Spain’s National Commission for Markets and Competition (CNMC). This legal framework allows Aena to implement fee changes without necessarily considering the unique circumstances of the Canary Islands, which has raised eyebrows among local officials.

Canary Islands’ Autonomy and Concerns

The regional government of the Canary Islands maintains that the archipelago’s Statute of Autonomy grants it the right to participate in strategic decisions related to the management of its airports. Article 161 of this statute requires the Spanish Parliament to enact specific legislation that would allow the Canary Islands a say in setting airport charges and related economic measures. This legal provision is a cornerstone of the islands’ push for greater autonomy in managing their transport infrastructure.

Rodríguez stressed the importance of recognizing the islands’ unique dependency on air transport, describing airports as the only viable means of connection for both residents and tourists. “Any decision taken on this matter affects not only tourism but also the mobility of our residents,” he stated emphatically. The minister’s comments reflect a growing concern that the fee increase could hinder both local travel and the tourism sector, which is vital to the islands’ economy.

The Canary Islands Government has repeatedly called for a “differentiated treatment” to reflect the region’s insular and remote status. They argue that increases in airport fees will have a direct impact on the cost of travel and tourism competitiveness across the archipelago. The islands rely heavily on tourism, and any additional financial burden could deter potential visitors, further complicating the economic landscape.

Impact on Tourism and Connectivity

In light of the impending fee increase, Ryanair has announced the cancellation of 400,000 flight seats to the Canaries. This drastic measure underscores the airline’s response to the increased operational costs associated with the higher airport fees. The government argues that such cancellations could significantly affect the local economy, which is heavily reliant on tourism. The loss of these seats could lead to fewer visitors, reduced spending in local businesses, and ultimately, a downturn in the economy.

Rodríguez emphasized the need for the Canary Islands to play an active role in decisions impacting connectivity and mobility, as recognized by their Statute of Autonomy. He reiterated that the government continues to seek negotiations with Aena to address the airport fee increases and protect the interests of both residents and visitors. The situation remains fluid, with local authorities advocating for a reconsideration of the fee structure to better align with the unique needs of the archipelago.

The potential consequences of the fee increase extend beyond immediate economic impacts. Local residents are concerned about the long-term implications for accessibility and quality of life. As air travel is often the only means of reaching the mainland or other destinations, any increase in costs could disproportionately affect those who rely on these services for work, education, and family connections.

Key Points

• Aena has rejected the Canary Islands Government’s request to exempt airports from a 6.5% fee increase.
• The fee increase is scheduled to take effect in March 2026.
• Pablo Rodríguez announced the decision during a parliamentary session.
• Aena cites legal authority to raise fees under CNMC oversight.
• The Canary Islands’ Statute of Autonomy allows participation in airport management decisions.
• Ryanair has canceled 400,000 flight seats to the Canaries due to the fee increase.
• The regional government is concerned about the impact on tourism and local mobility.