The Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Óscar Puente, has insisted that Spanish airport charges are the most competitive in Europe, and that if Ryanair disagrees, it is unlikely to find better rates elsewhere, as no other European country offers lower fees.
“We undoubtedly have the best airport operator in the world and the finest airports, thanks in part to this system of charges,” the minister said on Friday while presenting the investment master plan for Renfe’s workshops for 2025–2030. He stressed that Spain’s airport charges system cannot be subject to the “whim” of any private company, not least because there is a regulatory framework that both Ryanair and other airlines are fully aware of, and which the Government will not bypass.
He reiterated that no European airports have more competitive charges than Spain, which operates under a legal system introduced in 2014 that ensures the Spanish airport network is entirely sustainable. Ryanair has announced it will cut 1.2 million seats at Spain’s regional airports for the summer 2026 season, requesting a 50% reduction in airport charges, and will cancel all flights to Asturias.
When asked about the European Commission’s proceedings against Spain over airlines being prohibited from charging for hand luggage, Puente said the matter falls under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. As Transport Minister, he made no promises to Ryanair on the issue, as it was not within his authority to influence whether the sanction would be imposed.