Spanish Airport to Close for Five Weeks for Major Runway Construction
A popular Spanish airport is set to undergo a significant closure this spring, with all flights cancelled for a five-week period to facilitate essential runway construction works. The Santiago-Rosalia de Castro airport, located in northern Spain, will be completely shut to air traffic from 23 April to 27 May 2026.
Runway Resurfacing Leads to Total Shutdown
During this extensive closure, no take-offs or landings will be permitted at the aviation hub as crews carry out critical resurfacing operations on the runways. Airport operator Aena has issued guidance to passengers, stating: "If you have any questions about your flight status, schedule changes, or possible rebooking, we recommend contacting your airline directly."
The airport, situated near Santiago de Compostela, serves as the busiest airport in the Galicia region and the second-busiest in northern Spain. It handles numerous flights operated by major airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, and Vueling. The timing of the closure is particularly impactful, coinciding with the May half-term period when hundreds of journeys are expected to be disrupted.
Widespread Travel Disruption Across Spain
This airport closure adds to a broader wave of travel chaos affecting holidaymakers in Spain. In a separate development, airport staff across the country have initiated an "indefinite" strike, causing severe disruptions at multiple major airports.
Industrial action by ground staff has been ongoing since 30 March at 12 key airports, including Barcelona, Madrid, Alicante, Palma, Ibiza, Malaga, and the Canary Islands. Employees of Groundforce and Menzies are participating in the strike due to an ongoing pay dispute.
Spanish airport operator Aena provided details in a notice: "Groundforce staff have called an indefinite strike starting 30 March. Partial work stoppages will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during three time slots: 5-7am, 11am-5pm, and 10pm-midnight. Please contact the airline to find out the status of your flight."
The combination of the airport closure and nationwide strikes underscores a challenging period for air travel in Spain, with passengers advised to stay informed through their airlines for updates and alternative arrangements.
