Tourism between the Chinese mainland and Spain is set to reach new heights in 2026, fueled by expanded airline partnerships and rising demand for cross-continental travel. Industry leaders at Madrid’s FITUR tourism fair expressed optimism, with Iberia Airlines Commercial Director María Jesús López Solás forecasting continued growth: "Our forecast is that tourism will continue to grow across Spain, with Asia and China driving significant momentum."
Strategic Airline Partnerships
A codeshare agreement between Iberia and China Southern Airlines, finalized in December 2025, has already boosted connectivity. New direct Madrid-Guangzhou routes and revived London-Guangzhou flights contributed to a 60% year-on-year increase in Chinese visitors to Spain last year. López Solás highlighted plans to expand Latin American connectivity through hubs like Bogotá and Mexico City, calling the collaboration "a gateway for mutual growth."
Hainan’s Rising Appeal
Interest in China’s tropical Hainan island is surging following its designation as a tax-free Free Trade Port. Xu Ting Ting of Madrid’s Chinese Cultural Center noted a spike in inquiries about travel to the region, while China-Spain Tourism Office representative Lu Yuxu confirmed ongoing negotiations for direct Madrid-Hainan flights with Hainan Airlines.
Sustainability in Focus
As tourism rebounds, airlines face pressure to address environmental concerns. López Solás emphasized International Airlines Group’s net-zero 2050 target, citing a 30-35% efficiency gain in newer aircraft and increased use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). "This is a collective effort," she stressed, "requiring collaboration across partners and passengers."
