Copyright euroweeklynews
Expats living in Spain will soon have even more travel choices, as Palma de Mallorca Airport prepares to welcome a wave of new international connections in 2026. Confirmed routes include direct flights to Egypt and Latvia from Soltour, alongside new long-haul links from Etihad Airways and Air Canada, making it easier than ever to explore the world from Mallorca. These developments come as the island strengthens its position as a key Mediterranean travel hub, connecting Spain not only with Europe but also with North America, the Middle East and Africa. Soltour expands with direct flights from Palma to Egypt and Latvia Tour operator Soltour has announced plans to launch direct services from Palma to Egypt and Latvia as part of its Easter 2026 travel programme. The route to Latvia is set to begin on April 2 2026, followed by the Egypt service on April 4, providing convenient new options for travellers departing from Mallorca. The addition of these two destinations reflects Soltour’s ongoing strategy to expand beyond traditional European routes. The new connections will make it easier for residents and expats in Spain to discover both the cultural treasures of Egypt and the Baltic charm of Latvia without lengthy layovers or transfers. Etihad Airways to operate direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Palma Etihad Airways has confirmed that it will launch seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi and Palma de Mallorca from June 12 to mid-September 2026, marking Mallorca’s first-ever direct air link with Asia. The route will operate three times a week – on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays – using the Airbus A321LR, one of the airline’s newest and most advanced aircraft. Flights are scheduled to depart Abu Dhabi at 02:55, arriving in Palma at 08:15, with the return service leaving Mallorca at 10:30 and landing in the UAE at 19:00. The A321LR offers a premium onboard experience, featuring First Class private suites, lie-flat Business Class seating, and an enhanced Economy cabin with modern entertainment systems. This connection will allow expats in Spain to access destinations across the Middle East and Asia with greater ease, offering both leisure and business travellers a high-quality travel experience. Air Canada announces first-ever Montreal to Palma route Air Canada has also announced plans to operate direct flights between Montreal and Palma starting in June 2026, continuing until October. This will be the first non-stop service between Canada and the Balearic Islands, representing a major step forward in connecting North America with Spain’s Mediterranean coast. The flights will be operated by Air Canada’s new Airbus A321XLR, a next-generation aircraft designed for long-range comfort. It will feature 182 seats, including 14 lie-flat Signature Class suites, alongside a refreshed cabin design with upgraded entertainment systems and improved passenger comfort. The new route reflects Air Canada’s expansion strategy and will offer expats in Spain an easier way to visit family, friends, or business connections in Canada without transiting through major European hubs. In addition to these confirmed routes, Air Europa is exploring a potential direct connection between Spain and South Africa, according to a report by Europa Press. The country’s Ministry of Transport has authorised the airline to operate three weekly flights out of nine available slots, though the route remains under review. Air Europa is currently assessing factors such as passenger demand, airport capacity, and fleet availability before finalising a launch decision. If approved, this would represent the airline’s first-ever route to the African continent, expanding Spain’s global connectivity even further. Mallorca strengthens its role as a global travel hub With new links to Egypt, Latvia, Abu Dhabi and Montreal, and potential future expansion into Africa, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Palma Airport. These developments are particularly beneficial for expats in Spain, offering more direct travel options for international holidays, family visits, and business trips. The new routes also position Mallorca as a growing gateway between Europe, the Middle East, Africa and North America, further boosting its global profile and appeal. For travellers based in Spain, it means one thing: from Palma to the Pyramids, and far beyond – the world will soon be just a direct flight away.
