Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy has warned the Canary Islands risk driving away holidaymakers who might choose different destinations
Jet2’s CEO has issued a frank warning that anti-tourism sentiment and protests are driving holidaymakers away from the Canary Islands. And he says they’re “playing a dangerous game”.
He raised the alarm in the wake of sights like anti-tourist graffiti in Tenerife spelling out “Kill A Tourist” and escalating protests on the islands, the Express reports. Following October’s mass demonstrations by islanders calling out for tourism reform to protect their homes from overtourism, Steve Heapy, the airline’s boss, said: “Anti-tourism protests and derogatory comments from local administrations make tourists feel unwelcome.”
He went on to describe the threat these incidents pose, saying: “People don’t come to the Canaries to be mistreated or to witness protests. Such incidents tarnish the region’s image, pushing tourists toward destinations like Turkey and Morocco, where they feel valued.” Steve added: “Not everyone is rich, and many tourists simply want an affordable and relaxing holiday. If they feel unwanted, they’ll look elsewhere.”
The Mayor of Mogan in Gran Canaria, Onalia Bueno, recently announced a new daily tourist tax beginning in 2025, applying to accommodation across hotels, apartments, and holiday homes in the town to promote sustainable tourism. This will be charged at a rate of €0.15 per person per day.
Reacting to this development, Steve warned: “Rising taxes drive up the overall cost of holidays, reducing demand. And while Mogan’s tax is small, it sets a dangerous precedent.” Although the tax is currently limited to Mogan, there are growing calls across the islands for further action to curb the negative impacts of overtourism.
The CEO boss also suggested Morocco’s apparent open-arms policy to all tourists, regardless of wealth, serves as a shining example for the Canary Islands. He urged the islands to mirror what he said was Morocco’s cooperation between the government, airports, and tourism boards.
He gave this advice: “Governments need to enforce existing regulations and focus on controlling illegal rentals rather than penalising compliant operators.” Beyond that, he urged greater collaboration with the travel industry, saying: “They should also work with airlines and tour operators to promote the Canary Islands in key markets like the UK.”
Highlighting the critical role of tourism for the islands, Steve cautioned that in order to stay ahead of the game in today’s competitive market, they must ensure that tourism remains a priority. But his predictions weren’t all doom and gloom. He remains upbeat about future prospects, confidently anticipating a “strong performance in 2025”.
