Alicante Airport expects record summer 2026 as airlines add 16 million seats.

Airlines are preparing for a record-breaking summer. Alicante Elche Miguel Hernández Airport expects massive growth. Early forecasts show a 9% rise. Seat capacity will hit 16 million. This covers April to October 2026.

According to the Costa Blanca Tourist Board, operations will increase. Airlines plan nearly 88,000 flight movements. These flights link Alicante with 32 countries. More than 230 routes are now scheduled. Last summer saw 14.7 million seats. This new projection shows much stronger growth.

UK Market Remains Dominant

British travelers remain the top priority. The UK market is still key. Jet2 has confirmed a major boost. They added flights from London Gatwick. The airline will offer 560,000 seats. This is 53,000 more than last year.

Other major carriers are also growing. Vueling is expanding its Gatwick route. They will increase capacity by 24%. This adds up to 13 weekly flights. EasyJet also plans a 3% increase. These figures reflect high demand for Spain.

New Markets and Destinations

Airlines are looking beyond traditional routes. Eastern Europe is a growing market. Wizz Air will start flights to Bratislava. They are also launching a link to Armenia. This connects Alicante with Yerevan for first time.

North Africa is also seeing a return. Vueling is adding flights to Constantine. They are also restoring the Tangier route. Royal Air Maroc will fly from Casablanca. These routes offer new options for travelers.

Industry Impact and Outlook

This growth impacts the entire region. More seats mean more potential visitors. However, seat sales do not guarantee passengers. Final numbers depend on actual ticket bookings. Aena will monitor these operational shifts closely.

• Airlines plan 16 million seats.
• Capacity rises 9% over 2025.
• New routes reach Armenia and Africa.
• Jet2 expands London Gatwick service.

Germany is also a focus area. Eurowings is launching a Hanover route. Ryanair plans flights to Friedrichshafen and Saarbrücken. These additions strengthen Alicante as a hub. The airport is ready for a busy season.

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