Canary Islands News

A Jet2 flight from Lanzarote to Nottingham made an emergency return to César Manrique Airport after smoke was detected in the cabin. Emergency services responded quickly, all passengers were safely evacuated, and airport operations resumed with minimal disruption.

Manuel Hermoso Rojas, former president of the Canary Islands and longtime mayor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has passed away, leaving behind a remarkable political legacy. As the architect of modern Canarian nationalism and key figure in shaping the archipelago’s development over four decades, his influence on the islands’ political, social and economic evolution cannot be overstated.

A sailor’s mobile phone footage capturing a mako shark devouring a pilot whale near Tenerife has gone viral, sparking scientific curiosity and emotional reactions. This rare encounter in Canary Islands waters highlights the complex marine ecosystem that draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

A drunk passenger violently attacked crew members on a TUI flight from Gran Canaria to Birmingham, causing an hour of terror for 220 passengers. This incident is part of a troubling pattern of disruptive behavior on Canary Islands routes, prompting airlines to implement stricter policies and hefty fines.

The Canary Islands face a unique economic paradox where residents must purchase homes at prices comparable to Spain’s wealthiest regions while earning some of the country’s lowest salaries. This comprehensive analysis reveals how tourism simultaneously drives up property costs and keeps wages low across the archipelago.

Canary Islands airports achieved impressive growth in May 2025, welcoming over 4.1 million passengers—a 4.4% increase from the previous year. Gran Canaria Airport led with the highest passenger numbers, while Fuerteventura showed the strongest percentage growth at 8.4%, demonstrating the archipelago’s continued appeal as a premier travel destination.

The CCOO union has strongly criticized the Canary Islands Vice-President over his concerns that wage increases in the tourism sector might harm the industry. The dispute highlights tensions between workers’ rights and tourism interests as the islands continue breaking visitor records.

The Canary Islands government is considering a tourist tax to better distribute tourism wealth among residents, though officials face challenges in excluding locals from such fees. The debate highlights ongoing tensions between the islands’ economic success and ensuring local communities benefit from the thriving tourism industry.

New evidence emerges in the Jay Slater case, revealing the British teenager stole drugs and fled in paranoia through Tenerife’s dangerous terrain before his tragic death. Investigator Mark Williams-Thomas exposes crucial details previously withheld from authorities.

A leading economist warns that the Canary Islands’ tourism model has reached its breaking point, causing ecological and social problems despite economic success. The archipelago needs a new approach that balances visitor numbers with local wellbeing and environmental protection.