Could Ryanair's Rival Save Your Trip to the Canary Islands?

Vueling Airlines has seized the opportunity to increase its flight offerings to Tenerife following Ryanair's significant reduction in its flight schedule, which has seen the Irish carrier eliminate two million seats due to a dispute over airport charges. With nearly 900,000 additional seats planned for this winter, Vueling aims to cater to the gap left by Ryanair and enhance travel options for UK holidaymakers heading to the Canary Islands.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Vueling Airlines is adding nearly 900,000 seats to Tenerife North for winter 2023/24.
• Ryanair has cancelled flights to Tenerife and Vigo, reducing its capacity by two million seats.
• The dispute stems from a 6.5% increase in airport charges from Aena, Spain's state-owned operator.
• Vueling’s expansion includes 25 new routes, enhancing connectivity from the UK.
• Other airlines like Iberia Express and Wizz Air are also increasing their capacity to the Canary Islands.

The Ryanair Dispute: Background and Implications

Ryanair's decision to cut flights to Tenerife comes after ongoing tensions with Aena, the Spanish airport authority, which has instituted a 6.5% hike in airport fees. This increase has prompted Ryanair to withdraw its services from various routes, including those to the popular holiday destination of Tenerife. The airline's CEO, Michael O’Leary, has publicly stated that Ryanair will only return to regional Spanish airports if costs align more closely with lower-cost destinations.

Aena's chair, Maurici Lucena, has accused O’Leary of using the airport charges as a scapegoat for Ryanair's operational decisions. The exchange of accusations highlights the strained relationship between the airline and the airport operator, raising concerns about the availability of flights for travellers heading to Spain.

The Impact on UK Travellers

UK travellers looking to visit Tenerife will find Vueling's new offerings advantageous, especially as they seek alternatives following Ryanair's flight cancellations. Vueling's flights from London Gatwick and Heathrow are expected to provide a seamless travel experience to Tenerife North, with average one-way ticket prices around €85 (£73).

Additionally, Vueling’s expansion plans include not just the addition of seats but also new routes to other popular destinations in Spain, such as Seville, Santiago, Málaga, Alicante, and Valencia. This robust network could serve to enhance tourism and facilitate travel for UK residents who frequently visit the Canary Islands.

Other Airlines Responding to Demand

As Ryanair pulls back, other airlines are stepping up. Iberia Express, another low-cost Spanish airline, is adding approximately 30,000 new seats to the Canary Islands for the winter 2025/26 season. This includes 15,000 new seats to Tenerife North and additional flights to La Palma.

Wizz Air is also increasing its capacity significantly, with over one million additional seats for routes connecting to the Canary Islands, reflecting a growth of more than 28% compared to the previous year. This increase will enhance connectivity from various Spanish airports, further solidifying competition in the region.

Future Outlook for Airlines in the Canary Islands

The airline landscape is shifting, with Binter, the regional low-cost carrier, also announcing new services. Starting December 1, 2023, Binter will introduce five weekly flights from Gran Canaria and Tenerife to Seville, in addition to a new route from Tenerife North to Badajoz operating twice weekly. This diversification of services indicates a robust response from various carriers to meet the demand from travellers amidst Ryanair's reductions.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Air Travel to Tenerife?

The ongoing developments in the airline industry, particularly in response to Ryanair's flight cancellations, suggest a dynamic shift in travel options for holidaymakers heading to Tenerife. With Vueling's substantial increase in capacity, alongside initiatives from other airlines, travellers can expect improved accessibility to the Canary Islands this winter and beyond. As the situation evolves, the competition among airlines may lead to better prices and more choices for passengers willing to explore Spain's beautiful destinations.

As more airlines enter the fray, it raises questions about the future of air travel to popular holiday spots like Tenerife. Could this lead to more competitive pricing and improved services? Only time will tell how these changes will shape travel patterns heading into the winter months and beyond. #TenerifeFlights #Ryanair #Vueling

FAQs

Why did Ryanair cancel flights to Tenerife?

Ryanair cancelled flights to Tenerife due to a dispute over a 6.5% increase in airport charges imposed by Aena, Spain's state-owned airport operator.

How many additional flights will Vueling offer to Tenerife?

Vueling plans to offer nearly 900,000 additional seats to Tenerife North this winter, marking an 11% increase compared to the previous year.

What alternatives are available for UK travellers to Tenerife?

UK travellers can now choose Vueling, Iberia Express, and Wizz Air, which are all expanding their flight offerings to the Canary Islands amid Ryanair's cancellations.

What are the ticket prices for Vueling flights to Tenerife?

One-way tickets to Tenerife North with Vueling average around €85 (£73), making it a competitive option for UK travellers.

Are other airlines increasing their capacity to the Canary Islands?

Yes, both Iberia Express and Wizz Air are increasing their capacity, with Iberia Express adding approximately 30,000 new seats and Wizz Air introducing over one million additional seats.