UK Teams Up with Spain, France, and Belgium as Ryanair Slashes 60 Winter Routes Impacting Belfast, Glasgow, and Leeds Flights
Ryanair has announced a substantial reduction in its winter flight schedule for the 2025/26 season, cutting 60 routes. This move will significantly impact travelers from the UK, Spain, France, and Belgium.
Schedule Changes Starting October 2025
Beginning in late October 2025, passengers will no longer have access to several international connections. Key routes affected include:
- Belfast International (BFS) to Valencia (VLC)
- Glasgow (GLA) to Brussels Charleroi (CRL)
- Leeds/Bradford (LBA) to Paris Beauvais (BVA)
This decision by Ryanair is part of an effort to optimize operations amid rising operational costs, including higher airport fees and air traffic control issues.
Reasons Behind the Cuts
The airline attributes the cancellations to several financial pressures. Notable reasons include:
- Increased government taxes in the UK, Spain, and France
- Higher airport charges
- Air traffic control constraints
Ryanair has cited these challenges as essential factors in its decision-making process. As a result, the airline is expected to operate 1 million fewer seats to Spain during the winter months.
Affected Routes in Detail
Belfast to Valencia
This route, previously seasonal, will no longer be offered. Ryanair will focus on other destinations from Belfast, such as Alicante and Faro.
Glasgow to Brussels Charleroi
The cut in this service means passengers will need to seek alternative routes, though Ryanair will still operate 58 other routes from Glasgow.
Leeds/Bradford to Paris Beauvais
Passengers will no longer have access to the three-times-a-week service to Beauvais. Instead, Ryanair’s winter schedule will highlight routes like Warsaw and Dublin.
Impact on Passengers
Ryanair is providing rebooking options and full refunds for affected travelers. Although existing bookings remain secure for the time being, passengers are encouraged to check for alternative arrangements directly with the airline. Other carriers, such as EasyJet and British Airways, may have similar services but often at higher fares.
Future Cuts Likely
These recent route reductions follow earlier cancellations. In September 2025, Ryanair ceased operations on 15 routes. The airline’s approach suggests that further cancellations may occur due to ongoing financial constraints.
Exploring Alternatives
Passengers looking for alternative travel options can consider other low-cost airlines like EasyJet and Wizz Air. However, they should anticipate potentially higher prices compared to Ryanair.
Continually checking Ryanair’s official website for updates can ensure travelers remain informed about cancellations and available alternatives.
