Spanish Rail Crisis Pushes Airlines to Boost Capacity
Airlines in Spain are responding to a significant shift in travel demand due to a crisis affecting the country’s high-speed rail network. This situation emerged following a series of accidents and operational issues that have raised concerns about rail safety and reliability.
Impact of Accidents on Spanish Rail System
On January 18, 2026, a catastrophic collision between two high-speed trains in Adamuz, Andalusia, resulted in the tragic loss of 46 lives. This incident prompted the temporary suspension of rail services linking Madrid to southern Spain. Just two days later, another accident near Barcelona claimed the life of a train driver and left several passengers seriously injured.
These events, coupled with weather-related disruptions earlier in the year, have prompted severe restrictions on rail operations. The state-owned rail operator, Renfe, has now limited services, especially on the high-speed route connecting Barcelona and Madrid. This line, operational since 2008, usually accommodates over 25 train frequencies each way and has captured approximately 80% of passenger traffic between these major cities.
Changes to Travel Speed and Frequencies
Due to recent safety measures, trains must now operate at significantly reduced speeds. This reduction has slowed travel times from previous speeds of 300-350 km/h to about 160-200 km/h, resulting in longer journeys. Furthermore, increased maintenance requirements have led to the cancellation of some evening services.
As a consequence, many rail passengers have switched to air travel, creating a surge in demand for flights.
Airline Capacity Increase
In response to this increased demand, airlines such as Iberia and Air Europa have swiftly expanded their offerings. Iberia has added over 27,000 seats on routes from its Madrid-Barajas (MAD) hub to various destinations in southern Spain, including Sevilla (SVQ), Malaga (AGP), Granada (GRX), and Jerez de la Frontera (XRY). This enhancement has involved upgauging aircraft from Airbus A320 models to A321, alongside increased flight frequencies.
Air Europa is also enhancing its capacity. The airline has incorporated more than 8,600 additional seats on its route from Madrid to Malaga by February 13, 2026.
Price Strategies on Key Routes
On the crucial Barcelona to Madrid corridor, Iberia has implemented a price cap of €99 for economy class tickets. This route has long been one of the world’s busiest air corridors by passenger counts and is served under the “Puente Aéreo” (Air Shuttle) brand, offering around 14 flights each way daily.
These measures will remain in effect until at least February 19, 2026, when the travel situation will be re-evaluated.
Return of Low-Cost Carriers
Additionally, the ongoing crisis has prompted low-cost airline Vueling to reactivate its flights between Barcelona and Madrid. Vueling had previously exited this competitive route in March 2025 but is now returning to the market, also adopting the €99 price cap. The airline plans to operate up to four daily flights during weekdays and one flight each direction on weekends, continuing this service until at least February 22, 2026.
In light of these developments, the air travel industry in Spain is set to adapt dynamically to changing circumstances, with airlines committed to meeting the needs of travelers during this challenging time.
