Ryanair has announced a significant expansion of its winter operations at Murcia airport, offering flights to the Spanish destination with November temperatures reaching highs of 21°C. The low-cost airline will introduce four new routes, including a direct service to London Stansted with four weekly flights, alongside increased frequencies to Birmingham and Dublin. Starting fares for these flights will be available from just £14.99.
This expansion represents a 37% increase in Ryanair’s operations at Murcia airport for the upcoming 2025/2026 winter season. According to Alejandra Ruiz, Ryanair’s spokesperson in Spain, the new routes will not only provide passengers with more travel options but also create over 450 local jobs. Ruiz stated, “Ryanair is pleased to announce its schedule for Murcia for the 2025 winter season, with four routes, including a new flight to London Stansted, with four weekly frequencies, as well as additional flights to Birmingham and Dublin.”
Despite this growth, Ryanair is also facing challenges. The airline has had to reduce its overall capacity in Spain, cutting one million seats from its winter schedule. This decision comes in response to a sharp increase in charges imposed by AENA, which have risen by 6.62%, as well as ineffective incentive schemes that jeopardize the financial viability of regional airports. The cuts are part of a broader trend affecting Ryanair’s operations in other regions, where it has lost two million seats in 2025 due to similar circumstances.
Ryanair has long been an advocate for regional airports, emphasizing the importance of affordable air travel to stimulate local tourism and employment. Despite these challenges, the airline remains committed to maintaining operations in Murcia, where it has established a year-round presence. Ruiz added, “Despite excessive AENA charges, which have contributed to the loss of two million seats in 2025 in other regions, Ryanair remains committed to Murcia, where it operates year-round and supports over 450 local jobs.”
The expansion of flights at Murcia airport not only enhances travel options for passengers but also plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy during the winter months. The addition of these routes signals Ryanair’s ongoing investment in the region, even amidst rising operational costs and market pressures. With the airline’s focus on providing low fares and increased connectivity, travelers can look forward to affordable options to the balmy Spanish destination this winter.
