Binter explores new routes as Ryanair reduces presence
In the wake of Ryanair’s decision to cut flights due to a dispute with airport operator Aena over rising fees, regional airline Binter Canarias is actively exploring opportunities to bolster connections between the Canary Islands and mainland Spain. A company spokesperson confirmed to EFE that they are assessing the routes the Irish low-cost carrier will abandon this winter.
Impact on Canary Islands connectivity
The Canary Islands are among the regions most affected by Ryanair’s move. Of the two million seats it plans to cut nationwide, 20%—amounting to 400,000 seats—are from the archipelago. In a significant shift, Ryanair will also cease all operations at Tenerife North Airport (TFN).
Binter’s expanding network
Since introducing Embraer E195-E2 jets to its fleet, Binter has significantly expanded its route network from the Canaries to the Spanish mainland and the Balearic Islands. Its most ambitious venture to date is its service to Madrid-Barajas Airport, operating eight daily round-trip flights (four from Gran Canaria and four from Tenerife North).
Binter’s current roster of destinations from the islands is extensive, including A Coruña, Almería, Asturias, Badajoz, Córdoba, Granada, Jerez, Madrid, Menorca, Murcia, Palma de Mallorca, Pamplona, San Sebastián, Santander, Valencia, Valladolid, Vigo, and Zaragoza. Notably, this list features several airports that are among the hardest hit by Ryanair’s withdrawal.
Market analysis and opportunity
A Binter spokesperson emphasized the company’s proactive approach, stating, “We are constantly analyzing the market and looking for opportunities. We are always monitoring market developments to see if any interesting opportunities arise,” when questioned about the changing landscape.
Limited tourism impact but resident concerns
Despite cutting 400,000 seats, Ryanair is not exiting the Canary Islands entirely. The airline will maintain the core of its international business, with dozens of connections operating from Gran Canaria, Tenerife South, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. Consequently, analyses by the Canary Islands Government and local island councils (cabildos) suggest the impact on tourism will be minimal.
The primary concern, however, is for resident connectivity. The reductions are concentrated on flights to mainland Spain, which are vital for islanders traveling to and from the rest of the country.
Other airlines step in
Binter is not alone in seeking to fill the void. Other carriers are also mobilizing to capture the market share Ryanair is leaving behind. Iberia Express, for example, announced this Thursday that it will add 30,000 seats on its Canaries-mainland routes for the winter season. Significantly, half of this increased capacity will be allocated to Tenerife North Airport—the very hub Ryanair is vacating.
