Airlines operating in Spain are significantly increasing their capacity for summer 2026, aiming to capture tourist demand redirected from the Middle East. This move is supported by Spain's robust market and a secure fuel supply, as highlighted by Madrid. Between April and October 2026, the number of seats to and from Spain will rise by about 6%, reaching nearly 260 million, according to the Spanish Airlines Association (ALA). "The outlook is favorable," said ALA President Javier Gándara, noting that this increase reflects confidence that many travelers will want to visit Spain this summer.
The growth is concentrated in coastal and tourist regions, which are the main beneficiaries of the geopolitical shift. Alicante sees a capacity increase of around 14%, while Andalusia's seat supply grows by about 8%, with flights there up nearly 10%. In Málaga, some airlines report double-digit booking increases from the UK following cancellations of flights to the Middle East. Madrid and Barcelona airports also see an 8% rise in capacity, driven by urban tourism and long-haul connections rerouted to Spain.
This expansion occurs amid an "oil shock" for European air transport, marked by fuel price hikes and cancellation risks. However, Spain reassures on kerosene supply: over 80% of aviation fuel consumed in the country is refined domestically, while only about 11% of crude oil comes from the Middle East. "Thanks to its refinery network and supplies largely from the Americas and North Africa, Spain is better placed than other European countries to withstand a supply crisis," said Energy Minister Sara Aagesen. Spanish refiners have increased kerosene production by up to 60% in some plants, ensuring high stocks for the peak season. Spain is also ready to join a European mechanism for sharing aviation fuel stocks to secure the entire EU market.
Major airlines operating in Spain—Ryanair, Iberia, Vueling, Air Europa, and easyJet—do not plan to reduce capacity despite rising costs. They prefer fine-tuning frequencies and pricing policies to maintain the destination's attractiveness while passing on part of the energy bill.