Ryanair to Cancel All Azores Flights Starting March 2026 Over Steep Airport Fees and Government Inaction

Ryanair has announced plans to cancel all flights to and from the Azores starting on March 29, 2026. This decision stems from soaring airport fees imposed by the French airport operator ANA, coupled with a lack of action from the Portuguese government.

Reasons for Flight Cancellations

The airline cited a staggering 120% increase in air traffic control charges after the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, a new €2 travel tax has exacerbated the situation. Other EU nations are eliminating travel taxes to encourage growth, while the Azores faces a different reality.

Impact on Connectivity and Economy

• Ryanair will discontinue six routes, affecting approximately 400,000 annual passengers.
• Major destinations affected include London, Brussels, Lisbon, and Porto.
• The region’s tourism and job market are likely to suffer due to reduced low-fare connectivity.

Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jason McGuinness, expressed disappointment over the increasing airport costs. He noted that these fees are benefiting only the French monopoly while harming Portuguese tourism.

Call for Government Intervention

The airline has urged the Portuguese government to address these challenges. According to Ryanair, the lack of competition in Portugal permits the current airport operator to charge exorbitant fees without repercussions.

The current situation is putting the competitiveness of remote areas like the Azores at risk. Ryanair has pointed out that the European Union’s environmental taxes favor longer flights to non-EU countries, neglecting regions within its own borders.

Next Steps for Ryanair

As a result of these developments, Ryanair plans to shift its resources to more cost-effective airports within its extensive network. The airline emphasizes the need for fair regulations that level the playing field for all European airlines.

In conclusion, Ryanair’s withdrawal from the Azores highlights significant challenges facing this remote region, urging immediate action from both the Portuguese government and EU regulators to restore connectivity and protect local economies.