Visitors flock to the Costa Blanca region in Spain, defying concerns about deserted towns and declining tourism across the country. Alicante-Elche Airport, a prominent hub in the area, has broken records for the tenth consecutive month, with passenger numbers soaring and on track to surpass last year’s figures by the end of 2025.
In October alone, the airport welcomed 1.9 million travelers, marking a 5.9% increase from the previous year. Notably, British visitors accounted for a significant portion, with 631,771 passengers passing through. Following the Brits were passengers from Germany and the Netherlands, with 129,127 and 118,996 respectively.
Throughout 2025, the airport has seen a total of 17.2 million passengers, with projections indicating that it could hit the 20 million mark by year-end. Olive Press, a Spanish expat news source, reported the airport’s busiest October for flights, with 11,931 flights recorded—an increase of 6.1% year-on-year.
The surge in traffic can be attributed in part to the introduction of new flight routes to Alicante, particularly by Ryanair. The airline has expanded its connections to and from various destinations, enhancing accessibility for travelers. Additionally, Ryanair has increased the frequency of flights on 29 existing routes to Alicante for the winter 2025 season, capitalizing on the destination’s popularity during colder months.
Alicante-Elche Airport, ranked as the fifth busiest in Spain and the largest in the Valencian Community, is favored by tourists, especially Brits, for its proximity to Benidorm. The airport’s convenient location, just a 45-minute bus ride from the bustling holiday spot, adds to its appeal. Moreover, being only 20 minutes away from the vibrant city of Alicante, renowned for its cultural offerings and picturesque beaches, further solidifies its allure.
Despite recent concerns over anti-tourism sentiments and restrictive measures in certain tourist hotspots, the Costa Blanca region seems to be bucking the trend by attracting a growing number of visitors. Benidorm, in particular, has implemented strict regulations to maintain order, including bans on late-night swimming, reservation of beach spots, and smoking or vaping on the beaches, with hefty fines in place for violators.
The thriving tourism scene in the Costa Blanca region, exemplified by Alicante-Elche Airport’s record-breaking performance, serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of this popular destination among travelers.