Jet2 boss issues Canary Island warning over ‘dangerous’ anti-tourism policies

Jet2’s CEO Steve Heapy has warned that the Canary Islands are playing a “dangerous game” when it comes to tourism policies.

His comments come after ‘anti-tourism’ protests were held across the island last year, with locals raising concerns about the impact of visitors on the environment, local infrastructure and housing prices.

Residents have called for a more sustainable tourism model and responding to this, local governments in the Canary Islands have launched measures including a tourist tax in some areas and an ‘eco-tax’ to visit certain national parks.

Although there is still strong demand for the Canary Islands, Mr Heapy warns that tourists are being put off by protests and the sentiment that the destination prefers “wealthier visitors”, Canarian Weekly reports.

He said that “anti-tourism protests and derogatory comments from local administrations make tourists feel unwelcome“ adding that tourists are leaning towards destinations such as Turkey, Greece and Morocco “where they feel valued”.

The Jet2 CEO slammed a proposed €1.50 tourist tax in the resort of Mogán, describing it as “madness”. He said: “Rising taxes drive up the overall cost of holidays, reducing demand. While Mogán’s tax is small, it sets a dangerous precedent.”

Mr Heapy urged the Canarian authorities to enforce stricter regulations on illegal short-term rentals and provide more support for "license operators.” However, despite his concerns he predicts a “strong performance in 2025” for the islands, which remain one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

Tourism hasn’t just caused tension in the Canary Islands, it’s also become a divisive topic in other holiday destinations in mainland Spain and the Balearics.

Last summer demonstrations