In Spain, Ryanair has announced a significant reduction in flights from Girona airport, which is a popular destination in the Costa Brava region. The budget airline will cut its capacity by 11 percent this summer season, marking the first such decrease since the pre-Covid era. Ryanair's decision comes in response to grievances with the country's airport operator, Aena, which has raised airport fees by 10 percent starting in 2024, with a proposal for further increases by 21 percent through 2031. Ryanair aims to maintain its competitiveness and has highlighted that these fee hikes will adversely affect air connectivity, tourism, and employment in Spain. The airline had plans to enhance its operations at Girona by basing a fifth aircraft there and increasing its routes by 42 percent, which would have benefitted both the airline and travelers alike. However, these ambitions are now hindered by the rising operating costs imposed by Aena. Alejandra Ruiz, the spokesperson for Ryanair in Spain, stated that the flawed airport charges system has impacted not only Girona's capacity but also the growth potential at other regional airports like Reus. Ryanair has already removed 1.2 million seats from its Spanish flight schedule in protest of these high fees, which it believes are detrimental to the broader interests of the aviation market in the region. The airline has called upon the Spanish government, specifically the CNMC and the Ministry of Transport, to intervene against Aena's price hikes to foster a more attractive environment for airlines looking to operate in Spain. Without changes to the current fee structure, Ryanair remains cautious about any potential expansion plans and maintains that they are willing to invest in Girona, but only if the costs are competitive and favorable for airline growth.