Vueling has confirmed it will withdraw all flights from Cardiff Airport to Alicante and Malaga for the 2026 winter season, ending more than 13 years of operation from Wales' only international airport. The Spanish airline had previously expanded its Cardiff-Spain services last summer, but has now reversed course, removing the routes from October.
Route withdrawal details
The airline had planned to operate a three-flights-per-week service to Alicante, alongside flights to Malaga, over the Christmas and New Year period. However, Vueling has now scrapped these plans, pulling all winter flights to both destinations.
A spokesperson for Vueling said: "At Vueling, we are constantly analysing our network and flight schedule to offer our passengers the best connectivity options and adapt our offer to the connectivity needs of each route."
"In this regard, our route between Alicante and Cardiff will not operate during the 2026 winter season. In any case, we continuously evaluate any opportunities that may arise in the future," the spokesperson added.
Cardiff Airport response
Cardiff Airport expressed disappointment at the decision, noting that Vueling had been a presence at the airport for almost 13 years. The airport emphasised that Alicante remains a popular destination from Cardiff, with other carriers continuing to serve the route.
A spokesperson for Cardiff Airport said: "We are disappointed that Vueling has taken the decision to withdraw its Cardiff to Alicante service for the winter season."
"Alicante remains a popular destination from Cardiff, with TUI and Ryanair continuing to offer direct flights this winter. We remain focused on working with our airline partners to grow our route network and give customers across Wales greater choice from Cardiff," the spokesperson continued.
Passenger advice
Cardiff Airport has advised any customers affected by Vueling's decision to contact the airline directly regarding their bookings. The airport also pointed to alternative travel options available from Cardiff, including the services operated by TUI and Ryanair.
The withdrawal marks a significant reduction in connectivity between Cardiff and Spain, although the airport stressed that Alicante remains served by other airlines. Vueling said it will continue to evaluate opportunities to resume the route in the future.
