Hondarribia Airport has achieved a historic milestone by recording its best April ever in terms of passenger volume. A total of 43,701 travelers used the facilities last month, marking a 9.84% increase compared to the 39,787 passengers registered in April 2025, thereby reversing a two-month downward trend.
This surge in passenger numbers was also reflected in increased runway activity, with 562 take-off and landing operations managed. This figure is 70 more than the 492 recorded in the same month last year, indicating a more dynamic air connectivity for the region.
Cumulatively for the year, the airport has handled 132,320 passengers in the first four months of 2026. While this figure represents a slight decrease of 2.93% compared to the same four-month period in 2025, when 136,166 travelers were recorded, the current pace remains robust, especially considering the exceptional demand at the start of the previous year.
Several factors may have contributed to this April record. One notable event was the Copa del Rey final held in Seville, which saw the Real Sociedad team and part of its institutional delegation travel via charter flights. Although the exact impact is difficult to quantify, this passenger movement likely helped surpass the 2024 mark by 210 people (which had 43,491 travelers) and establish this new monthly record.
The holiday calendar also played a crucial role. Similar to 2025, Easter 2026 fell entirely within April, a traditionally high-demand period. The convergence of school holidays and public festivities during the first days of the month encouraged travel, decisively contributing to the surge in passenger numbers and this historic outcome for the Gipuzkoan airport.
With 43,701 travelers recorded, April 2026 is not only the best April in the historical series but also ranks as the 16th best month in the airport's history since records began. This data confirms the excellent health of the infrastructure, which continues to surpass its own benchmarks and solidify its position as a key driver for connectivity and tourism in Gipuzkoa, approaching the peak season records of months like July or August.
Looking ahead, the summer season promises to consolidate this growth trajectory with the introduction of new destinations. The main novelty will be the route to Glasgow (Scotland), operated by British Airways through its subsidiary BA Cityflyer, set to commence on July 18 with two weekly frequencies. The same airline will also strengthen its connection with London, increasing from two to three weekly flights, and will maintain the seasonal route to Edinburgh. Additionally, efforts are underway to open a new connection with Florence (Italy), potentially operated by Volotea from September. Negotiations are also ongoing to establish a strategic link with Frankfurt (Germany). These new routes will expand the airport's international offerings, opening new doors for tourism and business opportunities in the region.
