A popular Spanish airport operating 30 flights from the UK each week has closed for a month due to runway resurfacing work. Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport, also known as Santiago de Compostela Airport, serves 3.2 million passengers annually, making it the second busiest airport in Northern Spain. Located in Galicia, the airport officially closed on Thursday, April 23, with plans to reopen on Wednesday, May 27.
Airport Closure Details
A statement on the airport's website reads: 'During this period, the airport will be closed to all air traffic, and no takeoffs or landings will take place.' Major airlines such as Vueling, Ryanair, and Iberia operate flights to Santiago-Rosalía de Castro, impacting numerous holidaymakers. With 30 flights a week from the UK, and considering that most commercial planes carry an average of 180 passengers, these cancellations mean over 5,000 Brits will be affected.
What to Do If You Are Affected
The airport has been encouraging any customers concerned about flight status, schedule changes, or possible rebooking to contact their airline directly. Travelers should check with their carriers for alternative arrangements.
Alternative Airports Nearby
If you are planning a trip to the region, there are alternative airports you can fly to. A Coruña (LCG), also known as Alvedro airport, is a key regional airport just a 50-minute drive from Santiago-Rosalía de Castro. While it typically handles domestic traffic, there are a few select international routes available. For instance, you could fly from London Heathrow to Alvedro for £189. Another option is Vigo airport, slightly further south. A flight from Luton to Vigo costs only £141, though you may need a longer car journey to your final destination.
Discovering Galicia
While the closure may be a bump in the road, it should not deter you from visiting Galicia, a special corner of Northern Spain that is quickly becoming a favorite summer spot for Brits. Just 20 minutes from the airport is Santiago de Compostela City, famously the final destination of the Camino de Santiago, an iconic ancient pilgrimage. But there is more to Galicia than its capital. Visit the Cíes Islands, known as the 'islands of the Gods,' for deep-blue seas and beachy beauty. Rodas Beach, located there, has been named one of the best 50 beaches in the world. Alternatively, explore Pontevedra with its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, where visitors say wandering the narrow streets feels like stepping back in time. Galicia could become your new favorite European summer destination.
Other Aviation News
In related news, Coventry Airport in the UK is shutting down for good, described by locals as a 'real shame.' The airport in the West Midlands will see its final flight departing on June 10, 2026, after 90 years of operation. It will close to allow construction of a battery gigafactory. Once a handy hub for travelers, Wizz Air flew to various European destinations from Coventry until 2008. Now, it serves only the Air Ambulance Service and private charter flights. Isabella Boneham said on X: 'I think Coventry Airport closing is a real shame — not only for the city and its history, but for travel in the West Midlands.' Another reader added: 'Once an airport, always an airport. Part of our history will be lost again. Leave it as it is and attract more airlines.'
