Three people have died and five others have fallen ill in a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde.

Two of the dead are a Dutch couple. The man, 70, suddenly developed fever, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhoea and died on arrival at the island of St Helena, a British territory in the South Atlantic.

The woman, 69, was evacuated to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital. A third fatality was still on board, according to a source cited by AFP.

A British national aged 69 is in intensive care in Johannesburg and has tested positive for the virus, local officials said.

The outbreak was reported aboard the MV Hondius, a polar cruise ship run by Oceanwide Expeditions carrying around 150 tourists from various countries. The vessel departed Ushuaia in southern Argentina on 20 March and was due to arrive in Cape Verde on 4 May.

Hantavirus is usually passed to humans from rodents via their urine or faeces and can cause severe respiratory illness.

Who are Oceanwide Expeditions?

The Dutch cruise firm emerged from scientific voyages to the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard by the Netherlands-based Plancius Foundation.

Oceanwide Expeditions started commercial operations in 1993. It is based in the Dutch port of Vlissingen (Flushing) and specialises in expedition voyages to the polar regions, with the slogan: “Explore the best of Antarctica and the Arctic.”

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The fleet comprises three ice-strengthened ships: Hondius, Ortelius, and Plancius.

The company says: “Our expeditions attract independent travellers from around the globe who are characterised by a strong interest in exploring remote regions.”

Passengers are typically aged between their 30s to their 80s. Most are between 45 and 65.

Oceanwide Expeditions sets out the procedure when passengers become unwell – which is largely concerned with Covid infections.

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It says: “In event of passengers becoming unwell onboard we will follow a set protocol to keep that person and other guests, crew and staff safe and minimise potential spread of infections.

“Infected passengers (Covid or non) are recommended to stay in their cabins, have meals in their cabins and minimise contact with other passengers and crew. There is no requirement to go into isolation unless strictly indicated by a doctor or medical advisor.”

Simon Calder4 May 2026 07:32

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Cruise operator says Cape Verde has not authorised disembarkation

The operator of the MV Hondius has said Cape Verdean authorities have not yet authorised the disembarkation of passengers requiring medical care, as the ship remains off the coast of Cape Verde with three passengers dead and two crew members requiring urgent medical attention on board.

In a statement, Oceanwide Expeditions said local health authorities had visited the vessel to assess the two symptomatic individuals on board but were yet to make a decision on transferring them to medical care in Cape Verde. One passenger remains in intensive care in Johannesburg.

Dutch authorities have agreed to lead a joint effort to repatriate the two symptomatic passengers from Cape Verde to the Netherlands, the company said, along with the body of one of the deceased and a closely associated guest who is not symptomatic. The repatriation depends on authorisation from Cape Verdean health authorities.

“The priority of Oceanwide Expeditions is to ensure that the two symptomatic individuals on board receive adequate and expedited medical care,” the company said. It added it was working closely with the WHO, Dutch health authority RIVM, relevant embassies and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 07:30

The polar expedition ship at the centre of the Atlantic hantavirus outbreak

The MV Hondius is a Dutch-flagged polar expedition vessel operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, designed for some of the world’s most remote waters. The company describes it as the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 vessel, built to navigate ice-strengthened seas around Antarctica and the Arctic.

The 107.6-metre ship typically takes passengers on expedition cruises lasting between 10 and 19 days, with prices starting from around $7,800 per person. Its passengers tend to be adventurous travellers aged between 45 and 65, though the company says guests range from their 30s to their 80s.

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On this voyage, the Hondius had departed Ushuaia in southern Argentina — a common gateway to Antarctica — on 20 March, heading north toward Cape Verde off the west coast of Africa. It is now docked in Praia, the Cape Verdean capital, with around 150 tourists from various countries on board, according to South African health authorities.

The Foreign Office said it was closely monitoring the situation and stood ready to support British nationals if needed.

Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 07:00

Foreign Office in touch with cruise company on potential virus outbreak

The Foreign Office said it is monitoring reports of hantavirus outbreak aboard the MS Hondius cruise ship.

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Here is the ministry statement in full:

“We are closely monitoring reports of a potential hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship Hondius and stand ready to support British nationals if needed. We are in touch with the cruise company and local authorities.”

Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 06:30

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What are the symptoms of hantavirus?

Symptoms of hantavirus vary depending on which syndrome it causes, but both can be severe.

HPS, which affects the lungs, typically begins one to eight weeks after exposure. Early symptoms include fatigue, fever and muscle aches — particularly in the thighs, hips, back and shoulders. These can progress rapidly to breathing difficulties as the lungs fill with fluid.

HFRS, which affects the kidneys, usually develops within one to two weeks of exposure, though in rare cases it can take up to eight weeks. Initial symptoms come on suddenly and include intense headaches, back and abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea and blurred vision.

The WHO has said the virus requires “careful patient monitoring, support and response.”

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Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 06:00

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a rare infection passed to humans from rodents — typically through contact with their urine, droppings or saliva, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can also spread through a bite or scratch from an infected rodent, though this is uncommon. While rare, the WHO has said it can also spread between people.

The virus causes two distinct syndromes. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, or HPS, is a severe disease affecting the lungs. Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome, or HFRS, affects the kidneys. Both can be fatal. There is no specific treatment or cure, but early medical attention can improve the chances of survival.

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Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 05:40

WHO confirms one hantavirus case and five suspected on cruise ship as death toll hits three

The World Health Organisation has confirmed one laboratory case of hantavirus and five suspected cases aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic, with three people dead and one in intensive care in South Africa.

“Of the six affected individuals, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa,” the WHO said in a statement, adding that medical care was being provided to passengers and crew and that virus sequencing was ongoing.

The WHO said it was facilitating coordination between member states and the ship’s operators for the medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as a full public health risk assessment. “Hantavirus infections are typically linked to environmental exposure to infected rodents’ urine or faeces. While rare, hantavirus may spread between people, and can lead to severe respiratory illness,” it said.

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Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 05:33

Full story: What we know about hantavirus virus outbreak on Atlantic cruise ship

Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 05:21

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Three dead and five ill in hantavirus outbreak on Atlantic cruise ship

Three people have died, and five others have fallen ill in a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde.

Two of the dead are a Dutch couple. The man, 70, suddenly developed fever, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhoea and died on arrival at the island of St Helena, a British territory in the South Atlantic.

The woman, 69, was evacuated to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital. A third fatality was still on board, according to a source cited by AFP.

A British national aged 69 is in intensive care in Johannesburg and has tested positive for the virus, local officials said.

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The outbreak was reported aboard the MV Hondius, a polar cruise ship run by Oceanwide Expeditions carrying around 150 tourists from various countries. The vessel departed Ushuaia in southern Argentina on 20 March and was due to arrive in Cape Verde on 4 May.

Stuti Mishra4 May 2026 04:37

NATIONAL Icon Banksy is in the news again.

Now here’s a thought which certain of your Press letter writers will be able to answer. ‘Does Banksy have to have planning permission?’

Derek Reed,

Middlethorpe Drive,

York

—

Stick to the rules

ONCE again the planning regime in York shows how its decisions are inconsistent, illogical and unfair.

Outside the city walls in Fishergate, harmless window graphics in a student block are refused by council officers on the grounds they have a negative impact on the building and surrounding streetscape.

Meanwhile, inside the city walls in Piccadilly, entirely inappropriate alien shipping containers are approved by the very same planning authority with no mention of “a significant adverse visual amenity of the location, by virtue of their scale, position and number” or that they “appear as a large and dominant feature in the streetscene, appearing obtrusive in its surroundings”.

The excuse of “temporary” in Piccadilly no longer stands up after three extensions of time in contravention of The 1990 Planning Act making it clear this is not justified.

The latest five year extension brings this supposedly “meanwhile” use to at least 14 years – a greater longevity than might be expected from window graphics!

Matthew Laverack,

Lord Mayors Walk,

York

—

Lead by business?

CUTTING the cost of welfare and illegal immigrants is a priority of the Reform party.

Opponents say this is not fully costed. Leaders of this party are mainly businessmen who have succeeded and made money from running their own companies.

This is in complete contrast to almost all other parties who are either legal know it alls or career politicians who have no idea what running their own business for a profit entails.

So who would you trust with Britain’s finances?

A party who can make ends meet or ones that borrow and spend and bankrupt the country?

I know which I prefer.

Barrie Crowther,

Walton,

Wakefield

What do you think?

Feel strongly about an issue? Write us a letter. Please write no more than 250 words and you must provide your full name, address and mobile number. Send your views by email to: letters@thepress.co.uk

Write a comment

Join the debate and leave a comment in our comments section below this article – we may use your comments for a follow up article.

The proposal, submitted by developers MacMarshalls, seeks permission in principle for up to four houses on land behind Silver Birch Close, near High Rid Farm.

Planning documents argue the site should be classed as “grey belt” land, meaning it does not strongly contribute to Green Belt purposes, and it is described as a small infill plot between existing development that would “not fundamentally undermine” the wider Green Belt.

The ‘beautiful’ tree helps provide a habitat for animals (Image: NQ)

But people living nearby say the field is anything but expendable.

Charlotte Woodcock, who lives on Silver Birch Close, said the land is centred around a “veteran” oak tree believed to be hundreds of years old.

She said: “It’s irreplaceable.

“It’s a veteran tree which is minimum three hundred years old and it’s beautiful.

A veteran tree is one that is of exceptional age, size or ecological value, often supporting a wide range of wildlife.

She added: “The unique selling point of my house is that it has a view on to this beautiful tree and land that I was told can’t be built on because it is Green Belt land.

“That will be ruined.”

“I will tie myself to the tree if I have to.”

The application, lodged with Bolton Council on April 23, comes as the authority cannot currently demonstrate a five-year housing supply, something the applicant says creates a “demonstrable unmet need” for new homes.

However, residents fear approving the scheme could open the door to further development.

Louise Williams, who also live son Silver Birch Close, said: “For me it’s all around this grey belt, because if this gets approved. It will set a precedent and then where is the line drawn?”

The Green Belt land is adjacent to more which worries residents (Image: NQ)

Wildlife is another key concern, with residents reporting deer and protected bats using the land.

Mature trees and hedgerows are known to act as important habitats and corridors for species, say residents.

Ms Williams said: “These are protected species, which I’m sure love this land and the tree. It’s such a shame for the wildlife.”

The planning statement maintains the site is suitable for development, stating it lies within Flood Zone 1 and suggesting any surface water risk could be addressed through design.

But resident Paul Roberts said existing problems are already evident.

He said: “Flooding can happen quite often especially in winter, the drain that runs along the bottom of all our gardens is full to the brim of water.

“The tree roots help prevent flooding by soaking up the water, if this goes it could risk more flooding.”

The drains run along the bottom of the land to prevent flooding into neighbouring propeorties (Image: NQ)

Andy Dakin, who works in property insurance claims, warned building on the field could make matters worse.

“I work in property insurance claims and see everyday issues the last thing we want to see is the urbanising of this farmland which would significantly increase impermeable surfaces, intensify run-off and materially exacerbate flood risk.”

Access to the site is also being questioned.

High Rid Lane where the proposed access route will be, is described by residents as a narrow, single-track road in parts, with space for only one vehicle at a time

While the application suggests traffic from four homes would be limited, council highways engineers acknowledge the road is “sub-standard in width and forward visibility”, albeit with no objection in principle if improvements are made.

Silver Birch Close residents are ‘not happy’ (Image: NQ)

Residents say that does not reflect reality on the ground.

“I walk a pram down this lane every day and can see first-hand the issues cars face trying to get down a one-track road,” Ms Woodcock said.

“Allowing an access road just wouldn’t be viable.”

There is also frustration over how the plans came to light, with some residents saying they only became aware through Facebook despite claims of consultation.

Planning documents state neighbours were consulted on April 27, but residents say no letters, notices or posters were received or displayed in the area, with many only becoming aware through social media.

Ms Woodcock said “I only found out because of a community group n Facebook.

“If I didn’t go on this page, I would have never of known, and for those older generations that don’t use social media, they won’t have a clue.”

The applicant concludes the scheme represents sustainable development in a location close to shops and transport links.

For residents, however, the issue is more fundamental.

“It’s a whole ecosystem that should just be left,” Ms Woodcock said.

A decision has yet to be made by Bolton Council

MacMarshalls has been contacted for comment.

People gathered at the Sands statue to mark 45 years since the republican’s death amid a row over it being erected without planning permission

A Bobby Sands statue that was erected without planning permission “is going nowhere”, a Sinn Fein MLA has said.

The statue of the IRA hunger striker, who was 27 and an MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone when he died in 1981, was unveiled last year at the Republican Memorial Garden in Twinbrook, west Belfast.

It then emerged that it had been erected without planning permission, although Belfast City Council had not previously taken any action.

A DUP motion before the council on Thursday calling for the matter to be “reconsidered” was passed, with support from other unionists and the Alliance Party.

A Sinn Fein amendment seeking a review of the “current enforcement status of all such structures” across the council area was unsuccessful.

SDLP councillors abstained from the vote, after which west Belfast councillor Paul Doherty resigned from the party, stating that the statue of the IRA hunger striker “holds real significance”.

On Sunday, people gathered at the Sands statue to mark 45 years since the republican’s death.

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Sinn Fein MLA Danny Baker said the hunger strikers, 10 of whom died during the 1981 Maze Prison hunger strike, had inspired “many generations and many generations here to come”.

He told the crowd: “The spirit of the prisoners (and) our communities can never be broken.

“Our opponents were shook to their core last year and will continue to be because we are on a path, a path to Irish unity, based on equality and rights.

“There’s one very simple message I was asked to give today: the statue is going nowhere, not now and not ever.”

Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan told the crowd the emergence of the IRA was “a direct response to the violent and repressive nature of the orange state, layered upon 800 years of British colonial occupation”.

“I say to unionists, save your lectures and your moralising for others,” he said.

“We will commemorate our patriot dead in our own way.”

He compared unionists voting for a reassessment of the Sands statue to efforts by British prime minister Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s to “criminalise” Sands.

“Forty-five years later, today in 2026, those in unionism will also fail,” he said.

“This statue of Bobby Sands has pride of place and will have pride of place here in Twinbrook, in Bobby’s home community for generations to come.

“When all of us here today are dead and gone, and largely forgotten about, Bobby Sands will still be remembered. He and his comrades will remain a beacon of light for freedom-loving people everywhere.”

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On tackling crime in London, she backed more stop-and-search, more live facial recognition in crime hot spots, “immediate justice” with on-the-spot fines for graffiti and anti-social behaviour to “take back our streets,” and 10,000 more police officers nationwide, including many in London.

A vet has shared a 9-point new puppy checklist for dog owners to follow when bringing a puppy home for the first time, covering everything from vaccinations and vet registration to socialisation and training

A veterinary expert has identified nine essential steps that every pet owner should take straight away after welcoming their new puppy home.

Bringing a puppy into your household is both thrilling and often daunting, and according to Jen Wormleighton, Head of Veterinary Services at Animal Friends, the first few months of a puppy’s life constitute a vital period for shaping behaviour, establishing routines and ensuring lifelong wellbeing, , reports the Express.

What every new puppy owner should know…

According to Jen, concentrating on several key fundamentals can help owners in avoiding typical early pitfalls.

1. Know Your Puppy’s Stage Before They Arrive

By eight weeks old, the majority of puppies are weaned, inquisitive, and prepared to learn. It’s beneficial to confirm your puppy’s exact age with the breeder or rescue organisation so you’re aware of their needs upon arrival. This also allows you to arrange matters such as training, feeding schedules, and early routines with assurance.

2. Book Their Vaccinations, Flea and Worming Treatments Straight Away

If your puppy hasn’t had their first vaccinations, arrange them the instant they arrive at your home. Maintain their boosters every 2-4 weeks and keep on top of flea and worming treatments as well. These initial precautions help protect them as they develop and discover their new surroundings.

3. Register with a Vet Before your puppy arrives home

Register them with a vet so you’re fully prepared for routine care, advice and any emergencies. Make sure they are microchipped and update your contact details with the appropriate database, such as Pet Database, to ensure records remain up to date. If you’re adopting, your puppy should have already undergone a health check and received vaccinations, though it’s still worth familiarising yourself with the ongoing responsibilities so you feel ready for the road ahead.

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4. Start Socialisation from Day One

Puppies between eight and twelve weeks old are remarkably receptive to new experiences. This is the ideal opportunity to gently introduce them to new people, sounds, objects and everyday handling. If they haven’t yet completed their vaccinations, carry them outside so they can safely take in the world around them. These small but significant early encounters help nurture a confident, well-adjusted dog.

5. Establish a Simple Toilet Routine

First thing in the morning, after naps, meals and playtime, and approximately every hour in between, take your puppy to their designated toilet spot. Choose the same location each time, such as a patch of grass, and reward them when they get it right. Frequent, consistent trips yield excellent results.

6. Begin Gentle Training on Day One

Basic commands can be introduced as soon as your puppy settles in. Brief sessions using treats and praise will help them learn to sit, come when called and take treats calmly. Keep things enjoyable, relaxed and always end on a positive note.

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7. Offer Chews to Redirect Nipping

Teething occurs early in a puppy’s development, and those tiny teeth can be surprisingly sharp. Keep multiple safe chew toys within easy reach and offer them whenever your pup starts nibbling hands or clothes. This teaches them what’s acceptable to chew while providing relief for sore gums.

8. Restrict Walks Until Full Vaccination

After your puppy has completed their vaccination course, begin with short, gentle walks. Prior to this, limit outdoor exposure to carrying them outside for fresh air and new experiences without risking infection.

9. Create a Daily Routine From the Start

Mealtimes, toilet breaks, rest periods, play sessions and training work most effectively when they occur at approximately the same time each day. A consistent routine helps your puppy feel settled and makes the learning process easier for you both.

“

Kids aren’t getting worse. They’re just, very simply, getting fewer chances to practice being brave humans.

– JJ Kelly, licensed clinical psychologist known as the “Punk Rock Doc.”

These slightly uncomfortable conversations can have long-term positive effects.

How To End A Conversation

How To Disagree Without An Audience

How To Be With Someone Who’s Upset – Without Fixing It

How To Be A Good Witness When Something’s Wrong

How To Lose Well

Straight talk: Awkward conversations are worth the momentary discomfort.

StockPlanets via Getty Images

What can parents do to help get their kids’ social skills back on track?

Reassess the role phones/devices play in your child’s universe.

Reassess how you respond when your child brings conflict home.

Celtic came from behind to win at Easter Road, with Kelechi Iheanacho netting a late winner as Alistair Johnston impressed on his return but Sebastian Tounekti struggled before being hooked.

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Martin O’Neill believes a draw between William Hill Premiership title rivals Hearts and Rangers would be the best result for Celtic after they kept themselves firmly in the three-horse race with a “very edgy” 2-1 victory away to 10-man Hibernian.

Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute after the Hibees – who had Jamie McGrath sent off in the 20th minute – cancelled out Daizen Maeda’s 41st minute opener when Joe Newell notched in first-half stoppage time.

The Hoops moved level on points with the table-topping Jambos – with an inferior goal difference – and four ahead of third-placed Gers. Those two teams play their game in hand against each other at Tynecastle on Monday evening – and both still have to visit Celtic Park.

Here is how the Bhoys rated at Hibs:

VILIJAMI SINISALO

Given freedom to operate as a sweeper keeper for most of the match in Leith but was found wanting for the leveller. He misjudged his attempt before Joe Newell’s controversial effort found the back of the net. The Finland international attempted to maintain tempo with the numerical advantage and found himself unexpectedly busy as Hibs mounted late pressure. 6

ALISTAIR JOHNSTON

A game-changing presence who elevates Celtic whenever he features. His willingness to vary his positioning by drifting wide before surging into central areas proved highly effective. Johnston’s assist for the opening goal capped a tireless display down the right flank. The Canada international deservedly got his rest and his current form is encouraging ahead of the run-in. 8

AUSTON TRUSTY

When the towering American is attempting efforts from distance, you know Celtic are in control. Owen Elding worked hard but found little joy against Trusty and his defensive colleagues. A menace at attacking set pieces, he would have shared the general frustration with the inconsistent quality of delivery on an afternoon when dead-ball situations were plentiful. 6

LIAM SCALES

He slumped to the turf with relief when the whistle blew and the Irish defender gave everything physically. Scales seemed deliberately quickening his distribution and that matched the away side’s early ambitions. He was required to defend resolutely in the dying moments. 6

KIERAN TIERNEY

While he didn’t match Johnston’s impact on the opposite flank, the Scotland international produced a solid performance without any significant mistakes. Sebastian Tounekti, despite his shortcomings, seems well-suited to playing alongside the 28-year-old on the left side, given his preference for cutting infield. Although Tierney remained relatively quiet for extended periods, apart from delivering a few tidy crosses, he sparked into life during the closing stages. 7

ARNE ENGELS

The Belgian midfielder’s distribution fell below his usual standards at Easter Road. With the opposition sitting deep with 10 men behind the ball, his energy couldn’t make an impact, and he failed to provide the goalscoring threat that Martin O’Neill believes he’s capable of. His passing was often wayward and his attempts at clever through balls didn’t come off, though he did finish strongly. 6

CALLUM McGREGOR

The captain elevated his performance at Easter Road. He was both composed in possession and aggressive when winning the ball back. McGregor also showed his willingness to make forward runs and get ahead of play, a characteristic that seems to complement Alistair Johnston’s return to the first team. 7

BENJAMIN NYGREN

While the Swede’s 20-goal haul is clearly impressive, this match offered opportunities to both increase his tally and dominate proceedings. He thrives in the half spaces, yet there were numerous occasions where he hesitated rather than being decisive in crucial moments. Anthony Ralston came on to replace him late in the game. 6

YANG

While not quite the ideal complement to Johnston in the manner Nicolas Kuhn proved to be, the South Korean showed plenty of willingness to exploit space behind a tiring Hibs defence. At 23, he brings natural equilibrium when deployed on the right flank and posed problems in the opening period. However, when that extra touch of class was required, he fell short. Yang continues to be a valuable asset as the season reaches its climax. 6

DAIZEN MAEDA

An absolute bundle of energy from first whistle to last. If his finishing matched his work rate, his valuation would be through the roof. But there’s little point dwelling on weaknesses – the 28-year-old has rediscovered his form and his presence in attacking areas poses a genuine danger to Premiership opponents. He looked electric playing centrally and virtually unstoppable after switching to the left flank. 8

SEBASTIAN TOUNEKTI

The Tunisia international wasn’t flawless upon his introduction but at least demonstrated ambition. The 23-year-old now seems lacking in self-belief as he opts for the cautious option repeatedly. He was withdrawn for James Forrest after 63 minutes, though his substitution could have arrived much earlier. The player who once seemed guilty of overcomplicating matters has been diminished to a peripheral figure. Concerning for both immediate and future prospects. 5

LUKE MCCOWAN (Johnston, 64)

The former Dundee man made his presence felt and his incisive distribution pushed Hibs deeper. The former Dundee man displayed composure in the dying moments to help see out the match. 4 JAMES FORREST: (Tounekti, 64): He came on for Tounekti, prompted Yang to switch flanks and offered a reliable outlet down the right during the closing stages. 4

KELECHI IHEANCHO: (Yang, 70)

His finish was ice cool and summed-up his perfect role in this team. A specialist made for the biggest moments. They call it a closer in baseball and that’s what the Nigeria international is. Potentially a season-defining goal. 7

ANTHONY RALSTON: (Nygren, 77)

Bar a hairy backpass for Sinisalo, the Celtic utility man didn’t put a foot wrong. 4

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Ryanair is closing its seven-aircraft base at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, cutting over two million seats a year

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Ryanair is poised to reduce flights from several UK airports following confirmation it will close a significant base in Germany.

The airline has revealed it will shut its seven-aircraft operating base at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) from October 24, 2026. As part of this decision, Ryanair confirmed it will slash its flight capacity to and from the German capital by 50% during its winter timetable, reports the Express.

This means routes between Berlin and UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh are anticipated to be impacted. Ryanair presently operates direct flights from those airports to Berlin multiple times weekly, with journeys lasting approximately two hours.

While the airline has not specified which particular UK routes will be axed, it stated its Berlin passenger numbers will drop from 4.5 million to 2.2 million in 2027. The carrier added that over two million Ryanair seats annually will be lost as a consequence of the closure.

Ryanair confirmed it will maintain services to Berlin, but using aircraft stationed outside Germany. All seven Berlin-based aircraft will be relocated to lower-cost airports in other EU nations, including Sweden, Slovakia, Albania and Italy.

The airline attributed escalating airport charges and aviation taxes in Germany for the move.

Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson said: “We regret to announce this planned closure of our seven aircraft Berlin base from 24 Oct 2026, but we have no alternative following the Airport’s latest 10% fee increase to its already high airport fees.

“This comes on top of the 50% increase in Berlin’s airport fees since 2019. Despite Berlin Airport losing 30% of its pre-Covid traffic thanks to its excessive airport charges, and Germany’s stupid aviation tax regime, they have now decided to increase charges by a further 10%, which will result in the loss of more than 2m Ryanair seats p.a. and seven based aircraft.

“Ryanair will still serve Berlin but on a/c based outside Germany and our Berlin traffic will fall by 50% from 4.5m to 2.2m pax in 2027.”

He added: “German aviation is broken. The Govt. admits that it is uncompetitive, yet there is no strategy to cut aviation taxes or high airport fees – despite Ryanair warning that Germany would lose traffic, connectivity, jobs and trade.”

Mr Wilson also warned that additional reductions in Germany were “now inevitable” without significant cost reform.

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He went on to say: “Efficient operations and competitive airport fees are the foundation which enable Ryanair to deliver long-term traffic growth and increased connectivity for airports and regions.

“This is impossible at Berlin following the German Govt’s failure to abolish its harmful aviation tax and Berlin Airport’s decision to again increase its already high airport fees.”

Ryanair confirmed that pilots and cabin crew based in Berlin have been informed of the planned base closure. Consultations with staff are set to commence imminently, with those affected being offered the opportunity to apply for alternative positions within the airline’s wider European network.