Flight dispute

SPANISH airlines have swiftly dismissed the possibility of Spain implementing a law similar to France’s ban on short­haul flights after the law came into force in the neighbouring nation on Wednesday, May 24.

The pioneering measure, aimed at reducing carbon emissions by promoting train travel over regional flights, has been met with scepticism by the Spanish aviation industry. Spanish airlines argue that enforcing a comparable restriction would be unfeasible and ineffective.

The Association of Airlines (ALA) contends that eliminating flights under 500 kilometres or two hours would result in only a marginal reduction in emissions, of around 1 per cent.

Furthermore, airlines believe such a ban would have severe consequences for the aeronautical sector and tourism, vital for the country’s economy and employment. They argue that imposing additional taxes or flight restrictions would hamper Spain’s competitiveness and negatively impact livelihoods.

Commentators have also highlighted the disparity in rail infrastructure between Spain and France, which is thought to have more options in terms of long distance rail travel. The environmental impact of domestic flights remains a topic of debate in Spain as they strive to strike a balance between the environment, economy, and tourism sector.