Environmental Group Slams Andorra Airport Flight Expansion Over Housing Crisis

Pirineu Viu has criticised the expansion of flights at Andorra–La Seu d’Urgell Airport, warning it will heighten housing pressures in Andorra and the Alt Urgell region.

The environmental group argues that the new connections promote a tourism model reliant on high-spending visitors and investors, even as local workers face mounting challenges securing affordable rentals. This follows the government's decision to award French airline Chalair the airport's routes from 2027 to 2030, increasing from two to six lines. Alongside existing services to Madrid and Palma, the operator will add Paris-Orly, Lyon, Nice, and Nantes, using a 48-seat aircraft permanently based at La Seu d’Urgell.

Pirineu Viu contends that such growth clashes with residents' needs. It points to rising property prices in the Principat driving demand into La Seu d’Urgell and northern Alt Urgell, spreading housing strain across the Pyrenean territory. “While facilities are being created for more high-income visitors to reach Andorra, the working population faces growing difficulties finding a place to live,” the group stated.

The organisation objects to public spending on tourism infrastructure amid these affordability issues. “Housing must be for living in, not speculating on,” it asserted, questioning the focus on luxury tourism that treats land and homes as business opportunities. “Public resources cannot expand visitor appeal when residents struggle with rental costs,” Pirineu Viu added.

Calling for a rethink, the group demands anti-speculation policies, economic diversification, and quality jobs. “The Pyrenees cannot be a place where people work but cannot afford to live,” it concluded, insisting policies prioritise housing rights over speculative gains.