The Spanish government is considering a ban on short-haul flights, following in the footsteps of France, which has already implemented a similar measure. The proposed ban would target routes where a train journey of under 2.5 hours is possible, aiming to promote train travel and reduce carbon emissions.

Environmentalists have been advocating for stricter regulations, arguing that the proposed ban does not go far enough. They highlight concerns about its effectiveness and its potential impact on the air transport industry, while not fully achieving its environmental goals.

If approved, the ban would affect flights operated by major Spanish airlines such as Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa, particularly on routes connecting Madrid with Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, and Seville. However, the plan is still pending approval and will need to go through the amendment stage and pass the Senate.

Despite these efforts to curb carbon emissions, the European travel industry continues to expand, with new airport openings and route expansions across the continent. Italy’s Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport is set to reopen, with expectations of accommodating 3.3 million passengers in the next three years. Additionally, new routes are being planned, including Transavia’s Paris Orly Airport to Tallinn route and Spanish carrier Volotea’s new base in Brittany at Brest airport.