It has been a turbulent year for the aviation industry in 2026, with the conflict in the Middle East, involving the US, Israel, and Iran, disrupting fuel supplies, prompting some airlines to raise fares and cut flights.
The EU’s new entry/exit system has also caused additional disruption by increasing processing times for travellers at airports.
These challenges have already resulted in three UK airlines falling into administration or liquidation in 2026.
Ryanair cuts flights to Manchester Airport due to rising costs
Ryanair has been forced to make several major changes in 2026.
In April, the budget airline revealed it would be closing its Berlin base as of October 24, reducing the number of flights it operates out of the German capital by 50% (for its upcoming winter schedule).
Ryanair also announced it will close its Thessaloniki base and reduce capacity at Athens Airport for the 2026 winter season.
This closure will result in:
- 12 routes are being cut
- The loss of 700,000 seats
- A 45% reduction in passenger capacity
- Suspension of operations in Chania and Heraklion
The airline said both these cuts were due to high airport costs.
All the cuts made by Ryanair recently due to rising costs have resulted in flights being cut from 19 airports across the UK and Europe, according to The Sun.
The new EU entry and exit system explained
Manchester Airport is one of two UK airports to be impacted by these cuts, with London Stansted also affected.
You can see the full list of affected airports across the UK and Europe here:
United Kingdom
- London Stansted
- Manchester
Ireland
Germany
- Berlin Brandenburg
- Cologne Bonn
- Hamburg
Italy
Portugal
Belgium
France
Poland
Hungary
Romania
Bulgaria
Spain
What to do if you have Ryanair flights booked
If you have booked flights with Ryanair, it’s worth keeping an eye out for any changes to your flights.
Check your schedule before flying to ensure your bookings are still going ahead.
Have you got any upcoming flights booked with Ryanair? Let us know in the comments below.
