Groningen lands Tenerife route in boost to winter network

Groningen Airport Eelde in the northern Netherlands has secured a new service for the coming winter season with airBaltic to introduce flights from Tenerife.

Starting 29 October, services will operate weekly on Thursdays with the 148-seat A220-300 aircraft.

The route strengthens Groningen’s winter programme and responds to strong demand for sun destinations from its catchment area. It will be supported by Dutch tour operators including Corendon, Sunweb Group and Prijsvrij, alongside seat-only sales via airBaltic.

Commenting on the route launch, Mantas Vrubliauskas, VP Network Management at airBaltic, said: “We are pleased to launch direct flights from Groningen to Tenerife, offering a convenient connection to a warm-weather destination during the winter months.”

Tom Roek, Route Development Analyst at Groningen Airport Eelde, added: “Tenerife is a very popular destination in our region. With airBaltic and our partners, we are confident this route will perform well for many seasons to come.”

Network expansion despite tax pressure

This new route is particularly significant for Groningen Airport Eelde, as the Dutch Air Passenger Tax continues to put considerable pressure on route development.

Despite these challenges, the Tenerife route has been secured through substantial effort, close cooperation with airline and tour operator partners, and targeted investment to partly offset the impact of this tax.

The airport maintains that the current tax framework disproportionately impacts regional airports and continues to advocate for a more level playing field in the Netherlands.