- Flight Disruptions
- Ryanair to drop multiple European routes in 2026 amid higher costs
Ryanair to drop multiple European routes in 2026 amid higher costs
Check how much the airline owes you.
It's free and takes 2 minutes.
May qualify for compensation
Checked by Josh Arnfield
Last updated on 29 January 2026
3
Affected airports
1
Affected airlines
3
Affected airports
1
Affected airlines
What Happened
Ryanair will restructure its network in 2026, ending service on several European routes. The airline cites rising airport fees, increased aviation taxes and broader cost pressures. Affected areas include Germany (notably Berlin, plus reductions around Hamburg and Cologne), Spain (Asturias, Vigo-Peinador, Tenerife North, and the Santiago de Compostela base) and Belgium (withdrawals at Brussels and Charleroi). Travelers may face fewer low-cost options and are advised that alternatives could include rail on some corridors or connections via larger hubs.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to €600 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
Get flight compensation
free compensation check
fast and risk-free
highest success rate
Flight Disruption Details
Ryanair will carry out a network reshuffle in 2026 that will end service on several European routes. The airline attributes these route withdrawals to higher airport charges, increased aviation taxes, and general operating-cost pressures that have made certain services unsustainable.
Germany is indicated as the most impacted market. The changes include reductions affecting routes serving Berlin as well as cuts tied to Hamburg and Cologne. The airline highlights that government-imposed aviation taxes and rising airport access charges are making operations—particularly at smaller airports—more challenging. The adjustments are expected to reduce low-cost connectivity from Berlin unless capacity is replaced by other carriers.
In Spain, the airline plans to exit Asturias and Vigo-Peinador and to withdraw from Tenerife North. The Santiago de Compostela operational base will also be closed, with potential implications for regional tourism. These steps narrow budget access to several Spanish destinations, including the Canary Islands from Tenerife North.
Belgium will also see service withdrawals at both Brussels and Charleroi following a national aviation tax increase that doubled a passenger levy to €10. While some capacity might be taken up by other airlines, there is uncertainty over whether comparable low fares will be available.
The reported impact includes fewer low-cost seats into both major and regional cities, limited options for leisure and business travelers, and the possibility of pressure on local economies that rely on budget air links. Travelers may consider alternatives such as trains on key corridors—for example, between Berlin and Brussels—connecting flights via larger hubs like Madrid or Barcelona for island destinations, or booking well in advance to secure remaining capacity. The airline may review these markets in the future if taxes and airport charges change, but for 2026 passengers should expect fewer route options and potentially higher prices.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellations
Cause
Other
Status
Future – confirmed disruption
Compensation
May qualify for compensation
Airlines affected
Ryanair
Airports affected
Tenerife North, Asturias, Vigo-Peinador
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
29 January 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
