€300 Million Deal Raises Fears in Maspalomas
Air Europa Chairman Juan José Hidalgo’s call for Turkish Airlines to join the company’s board has caused unease within the Canary Islands tourism sector.
A €300 Million Strategic Move
Highlighting Turkish Airlines’ fleet of 495 aircraft and its aggressive growth strategy, Hidalgo argued that the airline’s acquisition of a 26–27% stake in Air Europa for €300 million would be beneficial for both Spain and Europe.
According to Hidalgo, this move would free Air Europa from the dominance of giants such as IAG, Lufthansa, and Air France-KLM. However, the tourism sector in southern Gran Canaria views the situation differently.
Concern: Losing Mainland Tourists
Maspalomas is a key attraction not only for German, British, and Scandinavian tourists but also for visitors from mainland Spain during summer and holiday seasons.
Tourism experts warn that if Turkish Airlines gains influence over Air Europa’s route and promotion decisions, a portion of Spanish tourists could be redirected to the Turkish coast, which offers prices up to 20% lower and a broader range of hotels.
One tourism expert summarised the risk as follows:
“If Turkey gains power in route and promotional decision-making, Maspalomas could lose its connectivity and market share from the mainland.”
Competitive Advantage: Access to Sensitive Data
Concerns extend beyond price competition. A seat on Air Europa’s board could give Turkish Airlines access to strategic data, such as the profitability of Gran Canaria routes and the profiles of passengers travelling from Madrid and Barcelona.
Such insights could be leveraged for targeted marketing campaigns promoting destinations like Antalya, Bodrum, or Izmir.
Maspalomas’ Response
According to tourism industry representatives, Maspalomas can strengthen its position by highlighting:
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its stable year-round climate,
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geographical proximity to Europe,
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strong reputation for health and safety,
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and particularly its LGBTQI+ friendly tourism segment.
These are areas where Turkey struggles, giving the Canary Islands a “privileged position.” Moreover, compared with geopolitical uncertainties in the Eastern Mediterranean, Spain’s EU membership enhances Maspalomas’ competitive edge.
Bottom Line: A Decision That Could Shape Maspalomas’ Future
For now, tourists continue to enjoy their holidays on the terraces of Playa del Inglés. Yet in tourism offices, the calculations have already begun.
While the Air Europa–Turkish Airlines partnership may appear to be a bold move for greater independence in Europe’s skies, in Maspalomas it raises a crucial question:
“Next summer, will Spanish families choose the Canary Islands or the Turkish coast?”
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