Ryanair Cuts Operations in Faro and Porto Following Airport Fee Increase by ANA

Ryanair has announced significant operational reductions at Porto and Faro airports in Portugal. This decision comes in response to an increase in airport fees imposed by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal and its concession holder, Vinci SA. The cutbacks will impact 40 routes operated by the low-cost carrier (LCC) from its bases in Faro and Porto during the upcoming summer season, as per ch-aviation fleets advanced data. Ryanair also operates from Funchal and Lisbon in Portugal.

Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson expressed strong disapproval of the Portuguese aviation regulator ANAC’s approval of ANA’s airport charge hikes, which could rise by up to 17% starting January 2024. Wilson criticized the decision for potentially harming Portugal’s tourism, connectivity, and job market, particularly affecting regions like Madeira and the Azores. He highlighted the closure of Ryanair’s Ponta Delgada base and the reduction of its Madeira operations due to these increased charges, equating it to a loss of USD 100 million in investment.

Furthermore, Ryanair pointed out a 50% increase in Lisbon airport charges compared to 2019, contrasting with the trend in Europe where many airports have reduced passenger fees to support recovery. The airline urged the Portuguese government to reconsider this fee hike.

Ryanair supports the development of the new Montijo Airport near Lisbon, which it believes could relieve pressure on the main Lisbon airport and introduce competitive dynamics. The debate over the new airport location is a hot topic in Portugal, especially with the upcoming March 10 election. The opposition favors Montijo, while former infrastructure minister Pedro Nuno Santos advocates for Alcochete, a more expensive option with greater expansion capabilities. The public consultation period for determining the new airport’s location has been extended to January 26, 2024.