The head of Spain’s airline association ALA has advised travellers to book flights as early as possible, warning that ticket prices could rise in the coming months. The recommendation comes amid ongoing cost pressures affecting airlines across Europe.
Javier Gandara, president of the Airline Association (ALA), said demand for air travel remains strong while operational costs continue to climb. He pointed to fuel prices, airport charges and supply constraints as key factors influencing fares.
The advice is aimed at both leisure and business travellers planning trips for peak seasons, including summer and major holiday periods. Industry data suggests that earlier bookings often secure lower fares, particularly on high-demand routes.
Airlines across Europe have reported sustained demand since travel fully rebounded after the pandemic. Passenger numbers have risen steadily, with many routes operating at or near capacity during peak times. This has reduced the availability of lower-cost tickets closer to departure dates.
At the same time, carriers face higher operating expenses. Fuel remains one of the largest cost components, and its volatility continues to affect pricing strategies. Airlines are also dealing with increased labour costs, fleet maintenance requirements and airport fees, all of which can feed into ticket prices.
Industry analysts say the combination of strong demand and constrained supply creates upward pressure on fares. Aircraft delivery delays from manufacturers have limited the ability of some airlines to expand capacity, particularly on popular short-haul and medium-haul routes.
Booking patterns have also shifted. Travellers are increasingly planning ahead to secure better deals, especially for school holidays and long weekends. This trend can lead to quicker sell-outs of cheaper fare classes, leaving higher-priced options for late bookers.
Low-cost carriers, which traditionally offer competitive pricing, are not immune to these pressures. While they continue to promote sales and discounts, their base fares may still rise in response to broader market conditions. Full-service airlines have also adjusted pricing structures, often offering tiered options that bundle services.
Travel experts say flexibility can help travellers manage costs. Choosing less popular travel times, flying midweek or considering alternative airports may reduce ticket prices. However, for fixed-date travel, booking early remains one of the most effective strategies.
The warning from ALA comes as European tourism bodies anticipate another busy travel season. Popular destinations in Spain, Italy and Greece are expected to see high visitor numbers, driven by both international and domestic demand.
Airlines are preparing for this surge by optimising schedules and, where possible, increasing frequencies. However, capacity growth is expected to lag behind demand in some markets, reinforcing the likelihood of higher fares.
Travellers are also facing additional costs beyond airfares. Accommodation prices in major tourist destinations have risen, and ancillary airline fees for baggage and seat selection can add to overall trip expenses.
Despite these challenges, the outlook for the aviation sector remains positive. Airlines continue to report strong booking trends, and the sector has largely stabilised after years of disruption. For passengers, the key takeaway is to plan ahead and monitor prices closely.
Gandara’s recommendation reflects a broader industry message: early planning offers the best chance of securing affordable travel in a competitive and evolving market.
