A Spanish airport is set to remain closed for several weeks, with the move likely to impact many British tourists. Santiago de Compostela Airport in northwest Spain halted its operation on April 23, and will resume them only on Wednesday, May 27, bringing all takeoffs and landings to a stop during that 35-day period.

The closure, which has been enforced already for two days, is part of a €31million (£26.8m) upgrade programme announced by airport operator AENA, which includes extensive resurfacing of the main runway. The disruption is expected to affect thousands of UK travellers, as airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling and Iberia all operate flights to Santiago de Compostela.

The airport typically connects the region with major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid, as well as several UK destinations.

On average, around 30 UKbound flights arrive each week, and with aircraft carrying about 180 passengers, up to 4,500 British holidaymakers could face disruption during the closure period.

AENA confirmed ahead of the closure: "The airport will be closed from 23 April to 27 May 2026 for runway resurfacing works. During this period, the airport will be closed to all air traffic, and no takeoffs or landings will take place.

"If you have any questions about your flight status, schedule changes, or possible rebooking, we recommend contacting your airline."

Travellers who had planned to fly into Santiago de Compostela during the shutdown can instead use other airports in the region.

The nearest option is A Coruña Airport, around 42 miles to the north, which offers a daily service to and from London Heathrow operated by British Airways, Iberia or Vueling.

Another alternative is Vigo Airport, roughly 61 miles south of Santiago de Compostela and just over an hour's drive away.

Santiago de Compostela itself - renowned for its Gothic and Romanesque architecture - is the capital of Galicia in northwest Spain. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is best known as the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.