Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport is preparing for a busy winter season with several new routes and extended services. From October onwards, travelers from Italy, northern Spain, Central Europe, and even the UK will find it easier than ever to reach the Costa Blanca. The new links underline Alicante’s position as one of Spain’s most dynamic airports and a year-round gateway for sun-seekers.
Milan, Santander and Bratislava: Three New Additions ✈️
The biggest headlines for winter 2025/26 are three brand-new routes that expand Alicante’s reach across Europe.
- Milan Malpensa (Wizz Air) – From 26 October 2025, Wizz Air will operate four weekly flights from northern Italy. This is expected to be especially popular with short-break travelers and second-home owners looking for quick access to the Mediterranean.
- Santander (Vueling) – Starting 28 October 2025, Vueling introduces a twice-weekly service from northern Spain. It brings back a domestic link that was missing during winter and should attract both business and leisure travelers.
- Bratislava (Wizz Air) – Beginning 15 December 2025, Slovakia’s capital city will be connected to Alicante with three weekly flights. The timing is ideal, just before the Christmas and New Year holiday rush, making it easier for Central European visitors to enjoy Costa Blanca’s mild winter.
Austria and the UK Keep Alicante on Their Winter Maps
Alongside the brand-new additions, several seasonal routes are confirmed to operate this winter:
- Salzburg (Ryanair) – Newly introduced in 2025 and now continuing into the winter schedule. This opens the door for Austrian and Bavarian travelers seeking a break from the snow.
- Linz (Ryanair) – Another Austrian city maintaining its connection through the colder months, with two weekly flights.
- Cardiff (Ryanair) – Alicante remains on Cardiff Airport’s Winter 2025/26 destination list, a welcome option for Welsh sun-hunters.
- Aberdeen (Ryanair) – Scotland’s northeast stays linked to the Costa Blanca, with flights visible in Aberdeen’s destination guide.
For Alicante, keeping these routes year-round is a clear signal that the region is no longer seen as just a summer-only destination.
Why These Routes Matter
More flights mean more visitors, but they also mean more opportunities for locals and expats. The Milan service adds flexibility for weekend trips, Santander strengthens Spain’s domestic network, and Bratislava opens Costa Blanca to a market that until now had limited direct access.
For the tourism industry, this is a boost in the quieter months, ensuring restaurants, hotels, and golf resorts remain busy. For second-home owners and digital nomads, it means smoother, more affordable travel options.
Travel Tips for Winter Flyers
- Book early – Low-frequency routes like Linz or Bratislava can sell out quickly during holiday weeks.
- Check days of operation – Many new services operate only 2–3 times per week. Planning around these days can save both time and money.
- Expect competitive fares – New routes often launch with promotional pricing, but demand for December and January tends to push prices higher.
- Think beyond summer – With more cities now connected in winter, Alicante is positioning itself as a year-round Mediterranean hub.
With three fresh city pairs and several confirmed winter services, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport continues to expand its European footprint. For the Costa Blanca, this means not only a stronger tourism industry but also better connectivity for residents and expats. Whether you’re arriving from Milan, Santander, Bratislava, or Salzburg, the message is clear: Alicante is open for travel in every season.
