Ryanair is continuing its operations at Murcia’s Corvera Airport despite an ongoing conflict with Aena, Spain’s airport operator, over high fees. However, while the region has avoided immediate route cuts, the future of 2026 flights remains uncertain.
For the upcoming winter season starting November 1, Ryanair will maintain four key routes from Murcia to Dublin, Birmingham, Manchester, and London Stansted (switching from Gatwick used in 2024). During the low season, eight routes remain open, all connecting to the UK, the main source of tourists to the Murcia region. Ryanair says it supports over 450 local jobs despite reducing seats elsewhere.
The airline has already cut 800,000 seats in Spain during summer 2025 and another million in winter, with a further reduction of 1.2 million seats announced for 2026. Corvera has remained resilient due to Ryanair’s strong presence, but its long-term route continuity is not guaranteed. Ryanair currently handles roughly half of Corvera’s passenger traffic.
The conflict reflects a broader clash between Ryanair and Aena. CEO Michael O’Leary criticized Spanish policies affecting regional airports, while Aena argues that fees are competitive and seat cuts are not solely due to airport charges. Aena also emphasized that other airlines are filling the gaps left by Ryanair.
Meanwhile, Ryanair has ceased operations at several regional airports, including Jerez, Valladolid, Vigo, and Tenerife North, but will increase capacity at major airports like Madrid, Barcelona, Palma, and Malaga by 600,000 seats.
