Ryanair has announced the complete cancellation of all its flights to and from the Azores, often referred to as the “European Hawaii,” starting March 29, 2026. This decision impacts around 400,000 passengers who travel to the Portuguese island group each year.
The airline attributes this move to escalating airport fees charged by the French airport operator ANA, which Ryanair claims unfairly inflate costs for Portuguese tourism and employment, particularly affecting the Azores.
Jason McGuinness, Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are disappointed that the French airport monopoly ANA continues to raise Portuguese airport fees to line its pockets, at the expense of Portuguese tourism and jobs – particularly on the Portuguese islands. As a direct result of these rising costs, we have been left with no alternative other than to cancel all Azores flights from 29 March 2026 onwards.”
READ MORE: Mobile Food Trucks and Tree-Lined Boulevard Planned for New Bilston Public Space
READ MORE: 4 New UK Driving Laws and Rule Changes Coming April 2026 – Full Guide
In contrast to this setback, Ryanair is expanding its presence at Newcastle Airport by adding a third aircraft base for Summer 2026. This investment of US$300 million is expected to support over 1,100 local jobs and increase traffic at the airport by 27%.
The new aircraft will introduce four new routes to Brussels Charleroi, Budapest, Malta, and Marrakesh, along with added frequencies on seven existing routes including popular destinations like Barcelona, Faro, Malaga, Dublin, Krakow, and Milan.
Jade Kirwan, Ryanair’s Director of Communications, commented: “Our expansion at Newcastle Airport brings more flight options and low fares for customers in the Northeast. We’re proud to contribute to local job growth and to offer new opportunities for inbound tourism. To mark this milestone, we’ve launched a limited-time seat sale with fares starting at £29.99, available now through the Ryanair app.”