Representatives of public entities and Air Nostrum CEO at the launch of the new Girona–Mallorca route, 25 March 2026

The Girona – Costa Brava Airport will revive domestic routes this summer after three years without connections within the country. Air Nostrum, a franchisee of Iberia for regional flights, will operate a new route between Girona and Palma de Mallorca from 2 July to 30 August.

During this period, 32 flights have been scheduled that will offer a total of 2,304 seats, increasing connectivity between Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.

Girona–Mallorca flights: times, frequencies and dates

The Girona–Mallorca route will run twice weekly, initially it will only operate on Thursdays, during the first weeks of July. From 19 July, flights will also be added on Sundays, facilitating weekend getaways.

A 72-seat ATR-72 600 aircraft will be used for the flights.

Prices and connections with Ibiza and Menorca

Tickets will be priced from €49 per journey (buying a return ticket). In addition, this route will allow:

1. 1. Connections with Ibiza and Menorca via Palma
   2. The same price for trips between Girona and any of the three islands
   3. A single ticket for the entire journey.

Boosting connectivity and tourism in Girona

The revival of this route responds to the strategy of promoting Girona–Costa Brava Airport as a regional hub and gateway to Catalonia.

This connection:

• Facilitates the mobility of residents between Catalonia and the Balearic Islands
• Opens new opportunities for tourism
• Will attract international visitors (especially from markets such as Germany or North America, already present in the Balearic Islands).

Institutional support and commitment to the future

Therefore, the institutions emphasize that this connection is key for:

• Diversifying airlines and destinations
• Increasing the number of passengers
• Extending the tourist season

The route is part of the promotion strategy being driven by the GROWing brand, which is working to attract new connections to the Girona airport.

A route with the potential for continuity

This is the first time that Air Nostrum will regularly operate the Girona–Mallorca route, after some special flights ran during the winter.

As a result, if the demand is positive:

• The route may be extended beyond the summer
• Annual flights may be consolidated
• Frequencies may be increased in the future.

Interested in operating from Girona? Explore the reasons to fly from Girona – Costa Brava Airport.

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The 2031 Ryder Cup, to be held at Camiral, will reinforce Spain’s position as a leading golf destination. It will also create a high-value opportunity for the commercial aviation sector. Around 200,000 visitors are expected. The estimated economic impact exceeds €100 million. This will drive strong demand for international air connectivity.

Girona–Costa Brava: A Natural Gateway

Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is located just nine minutes from the venue. Managed by Aena, it is the most convenient airport for Ryder Cup attendees. This is especially relevant for key markets such as the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. These countries are among Europe’s main golf tourism sources.

Aena is currently reviewing the airport’s Master Plan. The objective is to plan operational and infrastructure upgrades. These improvements will ensure sufficient capacity, efficiency, and service quality ahead of the tournament.

A Catalyst for Regional Air Connectivity

From an airline and airport planning perspective, the Ryder Cup offers clear opportunities:

1. Concentrated International Demand

Ryder Cup spectators have high purchasing power. They also show strong travel propensity. During the 2018 Paris edition, average daily spending exceeded €300 per person. This profile favors comfort and direct access. It supports both scheduled routes and premium charter services.

2. Off-Season Traffic Generation

The tournament takes place outside the peak season. This helps reduce pressure on congested airports such as Barcelona–El Prat. At the same time, Girona can absorb additional traffic efficiently. Past events confirm this effect. In Scotland 2014, 57% of visitors extended their stay before or after the event.

3. Global Exposure and Destination Promotion

The Ryder Cup reaches more than 600 million viewers worldwide. It offers exceptional global exposure for Girona and the Costa Brava. This visibility goes far beyond the event itself. It strengthens the destination’s position in key European and long-haul markets.

Air services launched for the Ryder Cup can have a lasting impact. Temporary or seasonal routes may evolve into regular services. This has already happened after previous editions in Scotland and France.

4. Untapped Potential and Room for Growth

Girona–Costa Brava Airport has available infrastructure. It also has unused operational capacity. This allows growth without the constraints faced by larger hub airports. The airport is therefore attractive for cost-efficient and scalable airline operations.

Its competitiveness could increase further with incentive schemes. Improved ground access would also be key. The long-anticipated high-speed rail link would significantly strengthen the airport’s position.

Preparing for 2031: A Long-Term Vision

The 2031 Ryder Cup should be seen as a long-term strategic project. This applies to Girona Airport and the wider Catalan airport system. Early planning and regional coordination are essential. With the right approach, the event can accelerate:

• Investment in airport infrastructure and intermodal access

• Airline attraction and new international routes

• Integration into a more diversified, sustainable, and high-value tourism model

For aviation professionals and network planners, the Ryder Cup is not just a short-term traffic peak. It is a structural opportunity. One that should be planned early and fully leveraged.

Contact us and find ourselves a partnership! → Contact

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Published: February 26, 2025 — Official State Gazette (BOE)

Spain’s Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility has officially approved the final study and public consultation phase for the new AVE high-speed railway station at Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO). This project marks a major step forward in intermodal connectivity, offering a seamless rail link between Barcelona, southern France, and the airport infrastructure of northern Catalonia.

Importantly, the station will be located just 500 meters from the existing AVE line between Barcelona and the French border — significantly improving air-rail connectivity in the region. This development will reduce travel times and increase efficiency for both passengers and industry operators.

Key Project Highlights

• Investment: €126.7 million (VAT included)

• Design: Extension of existing PAET (Train Passing and Parking Point) with:

  • 4 tracks and two 400-meter through platforms

  • 2 tracks and one 220-meter shuttle platform

• Pedestrian walkway: 493 meters long, 5 meters high, equipped with moving walkways — directly connecting the station to the airport terminal 

• Estimated usage: Up to 3.1 million passengers annually, including both regional users and airport-rail transfers.

Phased Development

The new HST station will be built in two stages:

1. Phase One: Focus on through traffic, optimizing current AVE line usage.

2. Phase Two: Construction of a dedicated shuttle branch line (starting 3.8 km south of the PAET) exclusively for fast BCN–GRO connections — enhancing airport access without interrupting mainline traffic.

 A Game-Changer for Airlines, Tour Operators, and the Region

Ultimately, the AVE connection to Girona-Costa Brava Airport is more than a transportation upgrade — it’s a strategic investment in regional mobility, sustainable tourism, and aviation sector growth.

In addition, the revised Airport Master Plan aims to expand connectivity with Barcelona, positioning Girona as a complementary hub to Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport. This mirrors successful models already implemented in major European cities with multi-airport systems.

What This Means for the Aviation and Travel Industry

For airlines and tour operators, the new connection offers a range of tangible advantages:

Enhanced passenger connectivity
Faster, direct access from Barcelona, southern France, and the broader AVE network
Integration with Spain’s high-speed rail system for seamless national and international connections
A competitive, well-connected alternative airport for expanding or diversifying operations

The Future of Sustainable, Intermodal Mobility Starts Here

In short, Girona is preparing to become a major player in Europe’s intermodal transport map.
>This high-speed rail link represents a clear step toward greener, more efficient travel, while boosting the region’s attractiveness as a tourism and aviation hub.

Click here for official project documents and updates.

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All three routes have recorded strong passenger loads since their launch, highlighting the demand and growing interest in these connections — both from inbound visitors and local travellers seeking new European destinations.

These new routes represent a valuable opportunity for both leisure and business travel:

• Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a rich cultural tapestry shaped by centuries of Eastern and Western influences.

• Ostrava, located in the industrial and cultural core of the Czech Republic, is known for its dynamic urban energy and year-round events.

• Lublin, in eastern Poland, is a charming historical city with a well-preserved medieval heritage.

With these additions, Ryanair continues to diversify travel options from Girona, reinforcing its commitment to regional connectivity and European expansion.

The launch of these routes also underscores Girona Airport’s strategic position within the European aviation network. The surrounding Costa Brava and Girona region offers strong year-round appeal. From beaches and nature to cultural tourism, gastronomy and winter activities.

These new connections mark an important step in boosting the destination’s visibility and supporting sustainable tourism growth in the area.

Reason to fly to Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees? Here!

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Wizz Air is one of Europe’s fastest-growing ultra-low-cost airlines. The company was established in 2003 and operated its first flight in 2004, connecting Katowice (Poland) with London Luton (UK). Since then, Wizz Air has grown rapidly across Europe. The airline currently manages a modern fleet of 207 Airbus aircraft and continues to expand. Recently, it placed an additional order for 75 Airbus A321neo aircraft, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and operational efficiency.

The introduction of the Girona–Budapest route reflects a shared vision between the airport and the airline: to provide affordable and accessible travel to an increasing number of passengers across Europe. With this partnership, both entities aim to boost tourism, improve mobility, and create economic opportunities in the region.

As part of its seasonal expansion plan, Girona–Costa Brava Airport will introduce five new routes in total throughout the year. This expansion positions the airport as a growing hub in Southern Europe and underlines its importance within the broader European air travel network.

Girona is a strategic destination with strong year-round appeal. Known for its rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and excellent connectivity, it offers significant value to airlines and travelers alike.

Inauguration of the first flight at Girona Costa Brava airport – 1 april 2025

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The award underscores the commitment of Aena’s airport team to delivering excellence in customer service and providing a first-class passenger experience. ACI World has acknowledged the airport’s exceptional performance, encouraging the team to celebrate this achievement while continuing to set new benchmarks in service quality.

Airports Council International (ACI) was established to foster the development of a safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable air transport system, reinforcing its role as the global voice of the world’s airports

Survey results from GRO visitors are clear: the continuous work on improving services is being recognized, from arrival at the airport to check-in, security checks, shopping and dining areas, signage, atmosphere, staff attention, waiting times, and, of course, the emotions that passengers experience throughout their journey.

Managed by Aena, Girona-Costa Brava Airport continues to stand out as a benchmark among regional airports in Europe, playing a key role in the connectivity and economic development of the Girona region.

Aena’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Maurici Lucena, expressed his gratitude for these recognitions, “which not only symbolize Aena’s success, but also serve as evidence of the value of constant effort, innovation, and commitment. This new distinction strengthens Aena’s position as a benchmark in the industry and motivates the company’s teams to continue raising the standard of quality and service offered to passengers every day as they pass through the facilities. For all these reasons, I thank all the teams for their dedication and professionalism. It is the result of joint work and of the vision they have been able to implement with determination.”

In 2025, GRO connects with 49 cities and 16 countries, with projections to exceed 2 Million passengers and a 10% increase in operations compared to last year and growing next year.

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Participants had the chance to discover the vast potential of Costa Brava as a tourist destination. This international visibility has had a significant economic impact on Girona. It has also strengthened the city’s position as a strategic hub for the aeronautical sector and other industries.

Hosting the event was a true honor for the GROwing team. It allowed us to share innovative ideas and explore new growth opportunities. We also established important partnerships that will help shape the future of air connectivity.

To continue growing, we will keep working to capture new routes in key markets. Our goal is to consolidate Girona Airport as a key alternative gateway to Catalonia year-round. In doing so, Girona will position itself as a vital option for air sector growth across Europe.

Connect with us on LinkedIn and don’t miss the video summary created by Connect Aviation 2025!

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GROwing has launched as the new brand to promote Girona – Costa Brava Airport and attract new airlines. The Girona – Costa Brava Airport Strategic Board, including the Diputació de Girona, Generalitat de Catalunya, and the Girona Chamber of Commerce, backs the initiative.

The brand presents the Vilobí d’Onyar terminal as an efficient, fast, and profitable option for travelers to reach Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees, and Catalonia.

The GROwing brand debuted during CONNECT 2025, the leading international congress for the aviation industry. The event took place at the Girona Exhibition Centre. The GROwing initiative is the result of collaboration between the Airport Strategic Board, Aeroports de Catalunya, the Catalan Tourist Board, and the Girona Chamber of Commerce.

Aiming for Growth and Connectivity

GROwing aims to position Girona – Costa Brava Airport as an appealing option for airlines. The goal is to attract new routes and continue airport growth. In 2024, the airport almost reached 2 million passengers (1,997,571), a milestone not seen since before the pandemic.

The brand name combines the airport’s IATA code (GRO) and the word “wing,” symbolizing growth and aviation. The slogan, “Your fast track to Costa Brava and Catalonia,” emphasizes the Vilobí d’Onyar terminal as a comfortable, fast, and congestion-free alternative to larger airports.

Sustainability and Efficiency

The brand also highlights the airport’s efficiency and sustainability. Shorter flight and taxi times at Girona – Costa Brava Airport result in fewer emissions per flight — up to 1,000 kg less CO2. The airport also offers lower fees and operating costs than other regional airports.

With GROwing, the airport strengthens its role as the best gateway for tourists visiting Costa Brava, Girona Pyrenees, and Catalonia. This year, the airport will connect to 49 cities across 15 European countries.

6 new Routes and Expanding Connectivity

New routes from Girona – Costa Brava Airport include Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Lublin (Poland), Ostrava (Czech Republic), Luton (London, United Kingdom), Budapest (Hungary) and Sofia (Bulgary). These new connections further expand the airport’s reach across Europe.

With GROwing, Girona – Costa Brava Airport continues to grow, offering an efficient and sustainable travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.

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In terms of activity, Girona airport has handled 24,368 flights, reflecting a 19% increase compare to 2023.

The main routes from Girona-Costa Brava airport are Brussels-Charleroi, London-Stansted, Weeze and Baden-Baden, which exceed 100,000 passengers per year. There are 13 more routes that exceed 50,000 travellers, including Pisa, Manchester, Dublin, Krakow, Bournemouth and Leeds.

Concerning the airlines, Ryanair ranks first in the number of operations, followed by Jet2, Transavia, Enter Air, and TUI Airways..

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Collaborating on the event are the Generalitat Government of Catalonia, Girona Provincial Council and the Chamber of Commerce of Girona. Over 700 people are expected to attend, including representatives of destinations, airlines and airports.

For more information on the event, see the following link.

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