Ryanair Cuts Over 3 Million Seats Across Europe for 2026

European budget airline Ryanair has announced significant route cuts for 2026, affecting over three million seats across various countries. The adjustments come in response to increasing operational costs, including air traffic control fees and aviation taxes, particularly in Germany, Spain, France, Belgium, and Portugal. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the airline’s strategy, potentially impacting connections and travel options for passengers in smaller cities.

Route Reductions in Germany

In a major move, Ryanair will eliminate 24 routes to and from Germany, resulting in a reduction of nearly 800,000 seats for the Winter 2025/2026 schedule. Airports in Hamburg, Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt-Hahn, and others will see significant cuts. The airline has already suspended operations at Dresden, Dortmund, and Leipzig for the upcoming year.

CEO Michael O’Leary criticized the German government for high aviation taxes and regulatory fees, stating that these costs hinder competitiveness compared to countries like Ireland and Spain. He highlighted that Germany’s air traffic market is operating at just 88 percent of pre-COVID levels, exacerbating the situation for the airline.

Impact on Spanish Routes

Ryanair’s cuts extend to Spain, with a planned reduction of approximately 1.2 million seats from its summer 2026 schedule. Notable changes include the cessation of all flights to Asturias and Vigo, alongside the closure of its base in Santiago de Compostela. The airline has also ceased operations at Tenerife North and will continue to reduce capacity for Santander and Zaragoza.

The airline attributes these cuts to ongoing disputes with Aena, the Spanish airport operator, over rising taxes and fees. Ryanair argues that these costs make regional airports less competitive compared to alternatives in Morocco and Italy.

Route Changes in France and Belgium

In France, Ryanair has already cut 25 routes, resulting in a loss of 750,000 seats for Winter 2025. Although the airline plans to resume flights to Bergerac in summer 2026 after negotiations with French authorities, routes to Brive and Strasbourg remain suspended. Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jason McGuinness, hinted at further cancellations if conditions do not improve.

Belgium will also feel the impact, with Ryanair withdrawing 20 routes and one million seats from its winter 2026/27 schedule. The newly implemented Belgian aviation tax, set to double to €10 per passenger, has played a significant role in this decision. The airline has called for the government to abolish this tax to stimulate traffic and tourism.

Changes in Portugal and the Balkans

In Portugal, Ryanair will cease all six routes to the Azores by the end of March 2026, affecting around 400,000 passengers annually. The airline cites high air traffic control fees and the newly introduced €2 travel tax as key factors behind this decision. Ryanair has expressed concerns that these fees deter low-cost connectivity to the Azores, which is vital for the island economy.

Additionally, the airline is implementing reductions in Bosnia and Serbia, reallocating resources to regions with higher demand, such as Croatia. Operations from Banja Luka will drop from six weekly flights to just two for destinations like Vienna and Memmingen.

As Ryanair navigates these substantial changes, the airline remains open to expanding operations if the relevant governments address the high costs impacting their business model. The ongoing adjustments reflect the competitive landscape in the European aviation market, where budget airlines must adapt to shifting economic conditions and regulatory environments.