So thinking about this further. Ryanair says in principle if the Generalität of Catalunia (the Catalan Government) won't pay them their subsidy to fly into Girona, they will leave Girona and move to places that will. And where, pray, will they be ?
Barcelona and Reus are the two nearest to fly in the millions of tourists who visit the Costa Brava and Barcelona each year, but they too are in Catalunia so Ryanair will go in vain for an increased subsidy there - and at Barcelona there are other airlines who would like to see Ryanair fall from grace. Another possibility would have been Perpignan, excellent for the northern area of Catalunia, but Ryanair have already blotted their copybook with the Perpìgnan city fathers, not to mention with the French government (Strasbourg, anyone ?!)
So unless Ryanair wishes to leave the Costa Brava market completely, I can see this being another "flying standing up" or "paying for the toilets" affair - not to mention "ten pound fare to fly the Atlantic".
OFSO
P.S. One hears a rumour that next week or the week after, the Generalität may well be talking with representatives of the orange airline, and that suddenly-available slots at Girona might be discussed.
Addition next day: Ryanairs Girona Madrid and back flights already taken over by another airline from the day Ryanair finishes (thought to be early May)
Last edited by OFSO; 19th Feb 2011 at 11:10.