Malaga-Costa del Sol hit by two-hour queues as EU Entry/Exit System falters over Christmas
China to grant Spaniards 15-day visa-free entry from 1 January 2026
ACI Europe urges emergency review of EU biometric border regime as queues grow at Spanish hubs
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Aena forecasts record 16,428 flights over year-end weekend despite strikes
Aena projects 16,428 flight movements over the 26-28 December weekend, up 3.2 % on 2024, signalling strong demand despite ongoing ground-handling and Ryanair labour disputes. Mobility teams should build in extra buffer time and flexible tickets to navigate potential delays.
China to Waive Visas for Spaniards From 1 January 2026 in 15-Day Pilot Scheme
Beijing has added Spain to its 15-day visa-waiver pilot starting 1 January 2026, removing consular paperwork and fees for short business and leisure trips. Spanish firms gain faster market access and lower travel costs, while tourism bodies expect traffic to rebound. The waiver does not cover work assignments longer than 15 days.
Ground-Handling Strike at Madrid-Barajas Set to Disrupt Flights on 26 December
Ground-handling staff at Madrid-Barajas will walk out on 26 December, with more strikes scheduled through early January. Iberia warns of delays and offers free rebooking; minimum-service rules limit but do not eliminate disruption. Business travellers should build in contingencies and review posted-worker filings if rerouted.
Nationwide Ryanair Ground-Staff Strike Hits Tenerife Sur and Other Spanish Airports
Azul Handling’s strike, affecting Ryanair flights, disrupted Tenerife Sur and 11 other Spanish airports on 26 December. The rolling action runs four days a week until year-end, causing baggage and turnaround delays at peak holiday times. Businesses should prepare for missed connections and retain delay paperwork for compliance purposes.
Spanish Airports to Operate 16,428 Flights Over Year-End Weekend, Says Aena
Aena forecasts 16,428 flights across its network for the 26-28 December weekend, 3.2 % more than last year. Madrid, Barcelona and Málaga will see the heaviest traffic. While demand is buoyant, concurrent labour strikes mean travellers should allow extra buffer time at major hubs.
‘Operation Christmas’ Phase 2 Begins: DGT Expects 1.9 Million Car Journeys in Andalucía
Spain’s traffic authority has started the second phase of ‘Operación Navidad’, expecting nearly two million car journeys in Andalucía from 26 December to 1 January. Extra patrols, drones and dynamic speed limits aim to ease congestion and cut accidents. International staff driving in the region should watch peak-hour forecasts and ensure toll tags are correctly configured.