Ryanair announces 39 new winter routes

With the Spanish government one of those yet to introduce a controversial tourist tax, Ryanair has taken the step to offer 39 new flight routes to and from the Canary Islands this winter.

From October 2009, the low-cost airline will be offering 16 new routes to Gran Canaria, 15 to Lanzarote and eight to Tenerife, with forecasts predicting an increase of two million new passengers.

Ryanair's Michael Cawley said: "Ryanair is delighted to open 39 new routes to/from the Canary Islands in October which will allow us to bring more low fares, more competition and choice to even more consumers/visitors of the Canary Islands.

"Ryanair's 39 new routes at Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife will deliver two million passengers and sustain at least 2,000 jobs at three Canary Island airports. These 39 new routes are the result of the 100% discount offered by AENA on its airport charges. The continuation of these routes past March 31, 2010 will be dependent on the extension of these vital discounts.

"We are confident that in the current climate of reduced traffic and tourism in Spain and the Canary Islands that the Spanish government will see the wisdom of extending low airport costs not just in the Canary Islands but throughout Spain."

To celebrate the launch of the new flights, Ryanair has made available 200,000 free (excluding taxes and charges) seats for travel to the Canary Islands between October 26-December 19, 2009. Flights can be booked online at www.ryanair.com.

Flying with Ryanair? Remember to book great value airport parking with Holiday Extras.

July 30, 2009