Ryanair, British Airways Flights Halted Amid Five-Week Airport Closure

Santiago de Compostela Airport in north-west Spain will close from April 23 to May 27, 2026. AENA has confirmed no takeoffs or landings will occur during that period.

Scope of the works

The shutdown funds a €31 million improvement programme. The main runway will undergo major resurfacing to boost safety and operations.

Airlines and routes affected

Carriers affected include Ryanair, Vueling, Iberia and British Airways. Ryanair and Vueling run direct services from London Stansted to Santiago de Compostela.

Routes to Spanish hubs such as Barcelona and Madrid will also be disrupted. UK services to the airport will be suspended for the full closure window.

Passenger impact and numbers

About 30 UK-bound flights usually arrive at Santiago de Compostela each week. Typical aircraft carry roughly 180 passengers.

Based on those figures, Filmogaz.com estimates up to 4,500 British holidaymakers could face disruption during the closure. Ryanair and British Airways customers should note that flights will be halted for the five-week closure.

Advice for travellers

AENA recommends passengers contact their airline about flight status, schedule changes, and rebooking. It advises affected travellers to seek alternatives well before planned departure dates.

The nearest alternative is Vigo Airport, roughly 61 miles south of Santiago by road. The drive takes just over an hour in normal traffic.

Local context

Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for Gothic and Romanesque architecture and the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.