A return flight to Barcelona can now cost less than a night out in Ireland tucking into tapas — the kind of sentence that sounds like a typo until you check the receipts.

With “just a few small plates” somehow turning into a big bill at home, the maths on a quick getaway is starting to look almost cheeky. When budget airlines are selling seats for the price of a couple of cocktails, booking a fare abroad can be a no-brainer.

Even better, you’ll get to soak in all the sunshine and fun that Spain has to offer. We’re talking beaches, incredible architecture and bars that stay open all night.

Ryanair is offering seats that are “cheaper than buying dinner”, which is brilliant news for those on the hunt for an affordable break.

The travel deal was recently brought to light by Spain Explore on Instagram, with the popular account keen to share the bargains available.

The popular post read: “Greece to Barcelona for just €40.77 on Ryanair. May 26, 2026 departure. This price won’t last long so grab yours NOW before it’s gone.”

Ryanair is widely recognised for offering highly competitive fares to Barcelona, with one-way tickets regularly starting from around €17 to €29.

To put things into perspective, the average meal out in Ireland typically costs between €20 and €40 per person when you pick a mid-range restaurant.

However, there are several key considerations to keep in mind when jetting off to Spain instead. As a rule, you’ll want to make your booking roughly 45 to 60 days in advance to maximise your chances of nabbing the cheapest tickets.

According to Skyscanner, you can bag €20 fares in August when departing from Dublin in August. Alternatively, you can get there from Cork for approximtely €18.

You should also be mindful of excess fees, which love to sneak up on us when we book with low-cost carriers. The rock-bottom fares usually include only one small personal item. Extra charges may apply for cabin bags or checked luggage.

More tips to save money when flying with Ryanair

1. Don’t pay to pick seats unless it matters – If you’re happy to sit anywhere, take the free assigned seats at check-in. Seat selection for couples/families can add up quickly.

2. Be ruthless with add-ons – Before you click anything, ask: do you actually need it? Priority/extra cabin bag, seat choice, Flexi, insurance and SMS updates can quickly double the total.

3. Check in online and keep boarding passes ready on your phone – use the Ryanair app to download your boarding pass and keep it accessible offline to avoid last-minute airport hassle and costs.

Credits: Ryanair

The post Ryanair launches flights to Barcelona that costs less than tapas in Ireland first appeared on AircrewNews.com.

These routes, starting between July and September 2026, will expand Malaysia Airlines’ China network to nine key cities and offer travellers more convenient options across the region.

New China Routes

The new routes include direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Shenzhen (SZX) and Changsha (CSX). At the same time, the airline is bringing back its popular Fukuoka (FUK) service, which it last operated in September 2006.

With these additions, Malaysia Airlines now serves nine important destinations in China: Beijing (PKX), Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Xiamen (XMN), Hong Kong (HKG), Taipei (TPE), and Chengdu Tianfu (TFU).

Tickets for the new flights are available for sale starting today, meeting strong demand from both business and leisure travellers.

Commitment to Growing East Asia Market

Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), highlighted the importance of this move. “This expansion shows our commitment to growing in key East Asian markets while making Kuala Lumpur a major regional hub,” he said.

“Shenzhen and Changsha fit perfectly with our strategy due to high demand in business and leisure travel. Returning to Fukuoka is equally exciting. As the only airline offering direct flights on this route, we provide a smooth, non-stop journey without any transit stops. These steps help us build a stronger, more connected network for our customers.”

Beyond East Asia, Malaysia Airlines is increasing flight frequencies on several important routes. These include Brisbane in Australia, Manila in the Philippines, and Colombo in Sri Lanka. The additional flights will support rising tourism and trade links.

The airline has also arranged special Kuala Lumpur–London flights on 18 and 22 April 2026 to help passengers affected by recent disruptions with other carriers.

MATTA Fair 2026

At MATTA Fair 2026, Malaysia Airlines returns as the Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor with its biggest presence ever. The airline unveiled the impressive MAG Arena, recognised by Asia Records and ASEAN Records as Asia’s Largest Airline Trade Pavilion at a consumer travel fair.

Spanning about 46,000 square feet, it is nearly three times larger than last year’s booth. The new pavilion turns the fair into an exciting, immersive experience.

Visitors can explore dream destinations, discover the latest travel technology, and enjoy interactive activities that bring journeys to life.

The pavilion also features Asia’s largest sports partnership activation by an airline. Fans can engage with Malaysia Airlines’ global partners such as Manchester United, as well as national icons like Datuk Azizulhasni Awang.

This dedicated sports zone highlights how travel and sport bring people together across borders.

Conclusion

Through these network expansions and enhanced experiences, Malaysia Airlines continues to position Kuala Lumpur as a leading gateway to Asia and beyond.

The moves strongly support Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2026 tourism campaign and bring the airline closer to its ambitious goal of becoming one of the world’s Top 10 global airlines by 2030.

Credits: Malaysia Airlines

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