In 2026, the European aviation map will change, and this will be felt by both tourists and frequent business travelers. One of the largest low-cost airlines is reviewing its presence at regional airports, which may complicate travel planning and affect the availability of budget flights. Find out more about which cities will lose Ryanair flights in 2026 and how these changes will affect passengers

In 2026, European travelers will face major changes in air travel. One of Europe's largest low-cost airlines, Ryanair, is reviewing its route network and cutting dozens of flights in various countries. For millions of passengers, this means more complicated travel planning, fewer direct routes, and potentially more expensive alternative flight options.

Why did the airline take such steps, which cities will lose flights, and how to prepare for travel under the new conditions — we will tell you more in this article.

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Why is Ryanair massively cutting routes in 2026?

Ryanair cites financial pressure from airports and governments as the main reason for the changes. Rising airport charges, air navigation fees, and aviation taxes in a number of countries are making some routes unprofitable for the low-cost model. For a carrier operating on a minimal margin, even a few percent of additional costs can turn a popular flight into a loss-making one.

Ryanair traditionally does not try to adapt to new conditions at any cost. If a country or airport raises taxes, the company quickly reduces its presence or completely withdraws from the route, redirecting planes to where operating costs are lower.

Which countries and cities will lose Ryanair flights in 2026?

The cuts will affect several regions of Europe at once, with routes from certain airports being completely closed. According to the company, the biggest changes are expected in the following countries and cities:

– The Balkans: reduction in flights to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia.

– Belgium: reduction in flights via Brussels (Zaventem) and Charleroi.

– France: suspension of flights from Brive and Strasbourg.

– Germany: closure or complete withdrawal of flights from Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Memmingen, Frankfurt-Hahn, and from 2026 also Dortmund, Dresden, and Leipzig/Halle.

– Ireland: reduction of routes from Cork, in particular to Poznan, Gdansk, and Rome.

– Netherlands: complete suspension of flights from Maastricht/Aachen Airport.

– Portugal: complete withdrawal from the Azores.

– Spain: closure or sharp reduction of flights from Asturias, Jerez, Valladolid, Vigo, Zaragoza, Santander, Santiago de Compostela, and Tenerife Norte, as well as a reduction in capacity in the Canary Islands.

For passengers from these regions, this means the loss of direct budget flights and the need to find alternative routes via other cities or airlines.

Ryanair flight reductions in Spain and Germany: why have these countries been hit the hardest?

Ryanair's decisions regarding Spain and Germany have caused the greatest resonance. In Spain, the company is cutting regional flights after airport charges were increased, which, according to the carrier's estimates, will result in the loss of more than a million passenger seats per year. Some airports are effectively losing regular budget connections, which could hit domestic tourism.

In Germany, the situation is even tougher. Due to high taxes and service costs, Ryanair officially calls certain airports “closed to its operations.” For passengers, this means fewer low-cost flight options and a gradual increase in the role of more expensive carriers.

How will Ryanair's route changes in 2026 affect passengers?

The reduction in the route network does not mean a complete abandonment of budget travel, but it does make it less predictable. Passengers will have to check schedules more often, plan transfers, and allow more time and money for travel. This is especially true for tourists who are used to flying directly from regional airports.

In addition, mass reductions increase the risk of cancellations and changes to reservations, especially during transitional seasons. In such conditions, it is worth taking care not only of tickets in advance, but also of your own safety during the trip.

Are you preparing for a trip abroad in 2026?

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Reminder! The European Union has systematically revised its approach to visa policy for the first time, laying down new rules for travel, work, and legal migration. The decision may affect both short-term visas and long-term plans of foreigners who see their future in Europe. We discuss the key changes in the first EU visa policy strategy and their possible consequences here.

Photo: Freepik

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