Ryanair’s Big Changes in 2025
What It Means for Your Travel Plans
By Mr Plane Guy Travel Blogger, Flight and Travel Expert
If you’re planning a European getaway in 2025, you might need to rethink your itinerary. Ryanair, is making some big changes to its flight schedule cutting routes and reducing services to several popular destinations. The reason? Rising aviation taxes across Europe.
Michael O’Leary’s airline has never been shy about voicing its opinions, and this time, it’s taking action by pulling flights from countries introducing or increasing aviation taxes. Spain, Italy, Denmark, France, and Germany are all feeling the impact of these cuts. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changing and what it means for your next trip.
Spain Takes the Biggest Hit
Ryanair is reducing its Spanish summer traffic by a massive 18%, cutting 800,000 seats across 12 routes. Cities like Jerez and Valladolid will no longer be served by the airline, while operations in Asturias, Zaragoza, Santander, and Vigo are also shrinking. Ryanair blames Spain’s state controlled airport operator, Aena, for increasing airport charges, which the airline argues make these routes uncompetitive.
18% reduction in summer traffic
800,000 seats cut across 12 routes
Cities no longer served: Jerez, Valladolid
Reduced operations in Asturias, Zaragoza, Santander, and Vigo
If you had plans to jet off to sunny Spain on Ryanair, you might need to consider alternative routes or check out Jet2, which will be launching direct UK to Jerez flights in May.
Italy, Denmark, and France Face Route Reductions
Italy isn’t escaping Ryanair’s restructuring either. Rome’s Fiumicino Airport is losing one Ryanair aircraft due to a new municipal surcharge kicking in from April 2025. No expansion for Rome means fewer low-cost flights to Italy’s capital during the Jubilee Year celebrations.
Denmark is also on the chopping block. Ryanair is scrapping flights to and from Aalborg and closing its Billund Airport base, blaming a new aviation tax of DKK50 (£5.60). That’s 1.7 million seats lost for Danish travellers.
Italy
Rome’s Fiumicino Airport loses one Ryanair aircraft due to a new municipal surcharge
No expansion for Rome, meaning fewer low-cost flights
Denmark
Flights to and from Aalborg scrapped
Billund Airport base closed
1.7 million seats lost for Danish travellers
France
Potential route cuts due to an increase in aviation tax (short-haul economy class tax rising from €2.63 to €7.40)
France’s aviation tax increase is another thorn in Ryanair’s side. The economy class tax for short-haul flights is rising from €2.63 to €7.40, and Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has already warned of potential route cuts in response.
Germany Feels the Pinch Too
Germany is another country losing Ryanair services, with a 12% reduction in flights this summer. A total of 22 routes will disappear, including a drastic 60% reduction in services from Hamburg International Airport. Bases in Leipzig, Dortmund, and Dresden are also shutting down.
12% reduction in flights this summer
22 routes eliminated
Hamburg International Airport sees a 60% reduction in services
Bases in Leipzig, Dortmund, and Dresden shut down
Ryanair Cabin Bag Size – Know the Rules Before You Fly
With all these changes, one thing remains constant—Ryanair’s strict baggage policy. If you’re planning to fly with Ryanair, knowing the Ryanair cabin bag size restrictions is essential to avoid unexpected fees.
Ryanair’s current cabin bag allowance includes:
Since Ryanair is known for enforcing these rules strictly, make sure your cabin bag meets the size requirements to avoid paying extra at the gate.
Ryanair Free Small Bag
Size:40 x 20 x 25 cm
Weight: No specified limit, but it must fit under the seat in front of you.
Types of Bags Allowed: A handbag, laptop bag, or backpack.
Free for all passengers.
Ryanair Cabin Baggage (Purchased Option)
Size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
Weight:Up to 10 kg
Storage: Overhead locker.
Cost: This is a paid option, available with Priority Boarding or as an add-on during booking.
Ryanair Checked Baggage Options
10 kg Checked Bag: Dropped at the check-in desk before security. Ideal for travellers who need more space but want to keep costs down.
20 kg Checked Bag: Suitable for longer trips or those travelling with heavier items.
Best Bags for Ryanair Flights
Finding the perfect bag that meets Ryanair’s strict requirements while being practical for your journey is crucial. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Cabin Max METZ 20L Underseat Bag (40 x 20 x 25 cm)
You can find more information about this bag Right Here
The Cabin Max METZ 20L is my go-to under seat bag for Ryanair flights. It’s perfectly sized for Ryanair’s free personal item allowance and comes packed with features:
Lightweight and Durable:Weighs only 500g, making it easy to carry around even when fully packed.
Comfortable for Travel: Extensive padding ensures comfort, whether you’re navigating airports or exploring your destination.
Organised Storage: Multiple compartments, including a front organiser pocket for travel documents, pens, and tickets, make staying organised a breeze.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled plastic bottles (Rpet polyester), it’s a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travellers.
This bag is also compatible with most major airlines, making it a versatile travel companion beyond Ryanair.
it comes in so many different colour options
Final Thoughts before take off
While these cuts may impact your travel plans, there are always alternative routes and airlines to consider. And if you’re flying with Ryanair, staying updated on baggage rules especially Ryanair cabin bag size limits will ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
What do you think about Ryanair’s route changes? Let us know in the comments below!
Related Links
Don’t Forget to Check in EARLY for Ryanair Flights or Risk Getting Bumped off!
RyanairCabin Bags: What You Need to Know
RyanairSet to Revolutionise Check-In with a Fully Digital Experience
My Stay at Premier Inn London Stansted Airport: Hotel Review
The Perfect Cabin Bag for Travelling with Low Cost Airlines. Cabin Max carry on Luggage
Hello I’m Paul a travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
I hope you enjoyed Ryanair’s Big Changes in 2025 do let me know in the comments if you have any questions about it.
Sign up to my emails Here to Subscribe
I promise not to bombard you! Just the occasional news full of amazing travel deals!
Comments