Ryanair Airport Shutdown in Santiago de Compostela Triggers Major Flight Cancellations Across Europe

Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport, Galicia's busiest hub, closed on April 23, 2026, for a 35-day runway resurfacing project. This closure has forced Ryanair, Vueling, and Aer Lingus to cancel dozens of flights daily, impacting routes across the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, and Italy. Travelers planning international journeys, including those monitoring a travel advisory Serbia, should be aware of these disruptions as they navigate broader regional flight changes.traveltomorrow.comwww.timeout.comwww.visahq.com

No flights will operate at the facility until May 27, coinciding with the start of the 2026 summer season. Ryanair has significantly reduced capacity at Santiago de Compostela, following earlier service cuts across northern Spain. Up to 50 daily flights are being diverted to alternative airports such as A Coruña, Vigo, or Porto, requiring passengers to arrange extended ground transfers.

Beyond the runway project, industrial actions at 12 other Spanish airports—including Alicante, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands—are contributing to widespread aviation instability. These strikes, combined with ongoing air traffic controller walkouts and union disputes at major hubs like Madrid and Seville, have created a complex environment for European travelers. Those rerouting through the Balkans or other regions should consult a travel advisory Serbia to stay informed on potential indirect effects on connecting flights and to ensure their itineraries remain flexible during this period of uncertainty.www.travelandtourworld.com