Canary Islands Challenge Airport Fee Increase
Pablo Rodríguez, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Public Works, Transport, and Housing, has publicly opposed Aena’s announcement of a 6.5% hike in airport fees for next year. The increase would add €0.68 per passenger, raising the Maximum Adjusted Income per Passenger (IMAAJ) from €10.35 to €11.03.
Government Demands Exemptions for the Archipelago
During a press conference following a government council meeting, Rodríguez stated officials will ask Spain’s central government whether the fee increase applies uniformly across all airports. If confirmed, the Canary Islands will demand exemptions under their special Economic and Fiscal Regime (REF). The minister emphasized that air connectivity is strategically vital for the islands, impacting both tourism and resident mobility.
Call for Greater Local Control Over Airports
Rodríguez questioned why Canarian airports should face higher fees when they generate substantial revenue that isn’t reinvested locally. He reiterated demands for shared governance of the archipelago’s airports under the Canary Islands’ Statute of Autonomy. The proposed fee increase, which requires approval from Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) and Aena’s board by late July, would take effect on March 1, 2026.
Aena Defends Financial Sustainability Plan
Aena, which receives no funding from Spain’s national budget, argues the fee adjustment is necessary to maintain financial stability and fund ambitious infrastructure investments planned for coming years.
