Ryanair Drops Azores Routes Amid Rising Airport Costs
Ryanair has cancelled all flights to and from the Azores, a group of Atlantic islands often compared with Hawaii because of their dramatic volcanic scenery and lush landscapes. The decision took effect on 29 March 2026 after the airline said airport charges had increased sharply. The move ends several direct low-cost connections that previously helped bring large numbers of visitors to the remote Portuguese region.
Six routes have been removed, affecting around 400,000 passengers each year who travelled to the islands using Ryanair’s services. The airline linked its decision to a reported 120 per cent increase in air traffic control charges, along with the introduction of a new travel tax. According to the company, the rising operational costs made the routes financially unsustainable despite continued demand.
Ryanair’s Chief Commercial Officer Jason McGuinness criticised what he described as high airport fees imposed by ANA, the operator responsible for Portuguese airports. He stated that increasing charges were damaging tourism on the islands and reducing affordable travel options. The airline confirmed it would redeploy aircraft to other European airports where operating costs remain lower, ending its direct presence in the Azores market.
Routes affected by the suspension
- London
- Brussels
- Lisbo
- Porto
The loss of low-cost flights may make reaching the Azores less straightforward, as travellers may now rely more on connecting routes or alternative airlines. The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, located about 950 miles west of mainland Portugal. The landscape includes crater lakes, thermal springs, green hills and black-sand beaches. Many visitors choose the islands for walking routes, coastal views and nature areas that remain less built up than in many southern European holiday destinations.
“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."
Without direct flights, trips to the Azores are likely to take more time, and lower fares may be less common. Some travellers may have to fly with a stop or book with a different airline. This can add extra time to the trip and make it harder to find suitable travel dates. The decision also shows that airport charges and local taxes play a part in whether airlines continue certain routes, especially where islands rely on regular flight connections.
