British holidaymakers have been urged to review their travel arrangements as a major Spanish airport is set to shut for several weeks this spring.

Santiago de Compostela Airport in north-west Spain will suspend all operations from Thursday, 23 April until Wednesday, 27 May, meaning no take-offs or landings will be permitted throughout the closure.

The shutdown forms part of a €31 million upgrade programme announced by Spanish airport operator AENA, which encompasses significant resurfacing works on the airport's main runway.

While the improvements are designed to enhance safety and efficiency, they necessitate a complete closure lasting just over five weeks.

The disruption could affect thousands of UK passengers, with airlines including Ryanair, Vueling and Iberia operating services to the airport, as initially reported by The Mirror.

Routes typically connect the region with major Spanish hubs such as Barcelona and Madrid, alongside UK flights. On average, around 30 UK-bound flights land at Santiago de Compostela each week. With aircraft carrying roughly 180 passengers, as many as 4,500 British holidaymakers could be impacted during the closure period.

Aena confirmed: "The airport will be closed from 23 April to 27 May 2026 for runway resurfacing works. During this period, the airport will be closed to all air traffic, and no takeoffs or landings will take place.

"If you have any questions about your flight status, schedule changes, or possible rebooking, we recommend contacting your airline." Those still intending to visit the region during the closure are being urged to consider nearby alternative airports.

One such option is Vigo Airport, situated approximately 61 miles south of Santiago, or just over an hour's drive away.

The affected city, Santiago de Compostela, serves as the capital of Galicia and holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status, celebrated for its Gothic and Romanesque architecture. It is also widely recognised as the ultimate destination of the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.