Else Beekman
The return of Donald Trump to the White House is already leaving its mark on the aviation sector: demand for flights from Spain to the United States has fallen by 15% in the first months of 2025. This was reported by Spain’s Mesa del Turismo, which attributes the decline to Trump’s protectionist policies and the introduction of new import tariffs.
Other contributing factors, such as stricter entry policies or a shift in public sentiment towards the US, cannot be ruled out entirely.
Downward trend despite favourable exchange rate
During a press conference, chairman Juan Molas explained that the drop is particularly noticeable on popular flight routes to cities such as New York and Miami. This comes despite the euro’s current strength against the dollar, which makes travel to the US cheaper for Europeans.
“Trump’s policies create uncertainty among both leisure and business travellers,” said Molas. “Even with cheaper tickets, we are seeing clear hesitancy.”
Direct US flights
Currently, there are 11 direct flights operating from Spanish airports to the United States. There are run by airlines including Iberia and Air Europa. Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat serve as the main hubs. The airports offer connections to New York, Miami, Los Angeles and Chicago, among others. Málaga and Palma de Mallorca also provide seasonal routes.
Additionally, plans are being considered to launch new direct connections. These include a proposed Ibiza-US route, although this still depends on feasibility studies and market demand.
Latin American destinations on the rise
Spanish airlines and tour operators are shifting their focus towards Latin American destinations. Countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Argentina are benefiting from this reorientation. According to Molas, bookings to these destinations are steadily increasing, partially offsetting the decline in US-bound routes.
US tourism to Spain remains unaffected
Interestingly, experts confirm that inbound tourism from the US to Spain has not yet been impacted by the political developments. Molas noted that the number of American cruise ships calling in and out of Barcelona remains stable. The same counts for overall bookings. “There has been absolutely no noticeable effect on that side,” he stated.
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