Curbelo Opposes AENA's Fee Hike, Calls for Improved Connectivity Amid Economic Strain
La Gomera's president criticizes AENA's airport fee increase and calls for better connectivity.
Key Points
- • Curbelo opposes AENA's 6.5% fee increase, citing economic strains.
- • Over 27 million passengers have traveled through the islands this year, making the hike unjustifiable.
- • He advocates for a differentiated fee policy for the Canary Islands.
- • Curbelo calls for improved inter-island connectivity and urgent infrastructure investments.
On August 1, 2025, Casimiro Curbelo, president of La Gomera's Cabildo, voiced strong opposition against AENA's recent 6.5% increase in airport fees, highlighting the adverse effects this decision could have on the local economy. Curbelo argued that the rise in fees is unjustifiable, particularly in light of the 27 million passengers recorded in the Canary Islands during the first half of the year, along with AENA's reported profits exceeding 890 million euros in the same period.
Curbelo stressed that the increase further burdens residents who are already coping with escalating living costs. "Imposing more cost on the price of tickets that residents already pay is something we categorically reject," he stated. He also emphasized that air connectivity should be viewed as a fundamental right for the islands, advocating for a differentiated airport fee policy tailored specifically for the unique geographical challenges faced in the Canary Islands.
Additionally, Curbelo urged AENA to prioritize investments in the region's airport infrastructure, which he believes are lagging despite being some of the most profitable in Spain. He argued for enhanced inter-island connectivity, suggesting that a Public Service Obligation (OSP) could facilitate direct routes between La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Palma, promoting equality of opportunity across the islands. "We want to move towards a Canary Islands of equals, and ensuring direct connectivity is a necessary step in that direction," he concluded.
This position reflects a growing discontent among local authorities towards AENA's policies, as the economic impact continues to raise concerns among residents and leaders alike.