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Fitur: 2026 calendar and schedule
Find out what Fitur 2026 is, when and where it takes place, ticket prices, and why it is a strategic event for the airline industry.
Each year, the tourism and air travel industry highlights one date that truly matters. In 2026, that spotlight falls once again on Madrid with FITUR 2026, an edition expected to influence strategy, unlock key alliances, and signal the future direction of global travel.
FITUR is more than just another event. It is the place where destinations, airlines, airports, public authorities, tour operators, and technology providers come together. For aviation industry professionals, attending is not just about visibility, but about understanding the market: future demand, connectivity, sustainability, new routes, and emerging business models.
At FITUR 2026, airlines will find the ideal setting to negotiate agreements, assess traffic trends, strengthen institutional relationships, and position themselves within an increasingly competitive ecosystem. All of this unfolds over just a few days, with a level of intensity that is hard to match at any other industry event.
This guide is designed to help you understand why FITUR remains a key industry event, what to expect from the 2026 edition, and how to make the most of it if you are part of the commercial aviation world. In an industry where timing is everything, being in the right place truly makes the difference.
What is Fitur 2026?
FITUR is one of the world’s leading international tourism trade fairs and the most important one in the Spanish-speaking market. The 2026 edition will once again take place in Madrid, bringing together the key players across the tourism value chain, including destinations, airlines, airports, hotel groups, tour operators, technology companies, and public institutions.
This major event was first held in 1981 with a clear goal in mind: to create a professional platform where tourism could drive business, build partnerships, and support strategic planning at an international level. From its earliest editions, the organizers designed it as a meeting point between supply and demand, serving both established and emerging markets.
Since its first edition, FITUR has grown steadily in terms of exhibitors, participating countries, and professional visitors. What began as a tourism promotion fair has evolved into an event where industry leaders discuss key issues, such as:
- Air connectivity strategies.
- Sustainability and decarbonization of transport.
- Digitization of the passenger experience.
- New distribution and marketing models.
In recent years, it has added dedicated thematic areas, professional forums, and innovation zones that reflect the shift of the tourism industry toward a more technology-driven, sustainable, and data-focused model.
Today, it has become a must-attend event for decision-making that directly shapes air connectivity, destination promotion, and the development of new routes.
The role of Fitur for the airline industry
For airlines, FITUR 2026 offers a strategic business environment. Airlines use the event to negotiate agreements with destinations, explore expansion opportunities, strengthen institutional relationships, and identify demand trends before they reach the market.
It’s also a chance for airlines to strengthen their presence with top industry leaders, explore emerging markets and route opportunities, and engage in conversations about the future of regulation, sustainability, and connectivity.
In an industry where network planning and operational efficiency are crucial, attending FITUR 2026 provides insights and connections that are hard to find anywhere else.
Economic and tourism impact of previous editions
Recent editions of FITUR have had a major economic impact on both Madrid and the tourism industry as a whole. The fair has attracted over 200,000 attendees and tens of thousands of accredited professionals, generating more than 400 million euros in economic activity for the city.
Beyond the numbers, FITUR’s real impact lies in what often goes unseen: deals signed, routes planned, investments announced, and strategies shaped during the fair that come to life in the months that follow.
That is why Fitur 2026 is once again shaping up to be a key event for those involved in the global aviation and tourism industry.
What activities does Fitur 2026 include?
One of FITUR 2026’s greatest strengths is the variety of activities packed into just a few days, designed to cover the full spectrum of the tourism business. For the airline industry, this means access to strategic insights, business opportunities, and direct engagement with the sector’s key players.
Presentations of destinations and promotional strategies
Tourism destinations from around the world use FITUR as their main international showcase. They share marketing priorities, connectivity plans, and campaign strategies, giving airlines a clear picture of where new routes, flight frequencies, and joint initiatives are headed.
B2B meetings between companies in the sector
Above all, FITUR is a business-focused event. At the 2026 edition, thousands of meetings will take place between airlines, airports, tourism authorities, tour operators, and service providers. Many of these meetings are scheduled months in advance and play a crucial role in sealing concrete deals.
Launches of tourism products and services
Many industry launches happen at FITUR. Companies often present new routes, premium services, technology solutions, loyalty programs, and mobility projects during the event, taking advantage of the presence of key decision-makers and specialized media.
Conferences and round tables on trends
Throughout the fair, conferences, forums, and panel discussions explore trends that directly affect aviation, including demand shifts, sustainability, regulation, digital transformation, passenger experience, and emerging business models.
Spaces dedicated to technology and innovation
FITUR has grown into a hub for tourism innovation. These areas showcase data solutions, artificial intelligence, operational optimization, and digital tools that are especially relevant for airlines and airports looking to boost efficiency and stand out in the market.
Professional networking activities
Beyond formal meetings, FITUR 2026 will also provide plenty of opportunities for informal networking, including side events, private presentations, and sector-specific gatherings. Industry professionals form or strengthen many strategic relationships in these more relaxed settings.
Promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism
Sustainability will be a central focus at FITUR 2026. The upcoming edition is set to highlight initiatives in decarbonization, energy efficiency, and responsible tourism, all of which are directly relevant to the challenges facing commercial aviation today.
Actions aimed at investment and tourism development
FITUR also serves as a meeting point for investors, destinations, and operators. The fair showcases infrastructure projects, airport developments, and tourism expansion plans, all of which rely on air connectivity and create long-term opportunities for airlines.
Taken together, these activities make FITUR 2026 a hub for decision-making, where the aviation industry can anticipate trends, negotiate deals, and establish its position in a constantly evolving global travel market.
Who are the most notable exhibitors at Fitur 2026?
The true value of FITUR 2026 comes from the people it brings together, not just the exhibition itself. By gathering the top leaders in tourism and aviation, it provides a prime environment for negotiating, spotting emerging trends, and securing strategic deals.
Here is an overview of the key profiles that typically attend the event and are expected to take a prominent role again at the 2026 edition:
| Guest | Role within the industry | Why they are relevant at Fitur |
| Airline executives | CEOs, commercial VPs, network planning | They define new routes, frequencies, alliances, and agreements with destinations |
| Tourism authorities | Ministers, secretaries, and official bodies | They set priorities for tourism promotion and investment |
| Airport executives | Airport operators and managers | Negotiate connectivity, slots, and infrastructure development |
| Global tour operators | Major travel intermediaries | Influence demand and route marketing |
| Technology providers | Data, AI, and management system companies | Present key solutions for efficiency and passenger experience |
| Investors and funds | Private capital and multilateral organizations | Promote tourism and air connectivity projects |
| Specialized media | Tourism and aviation press | Amplify announcements, launches, and agreements |
This mix of attendees makes FITUR 2026 an environment where airlines do more than showcase their brand. They make business decisions that have a real impact in the short and medium term.
Staying connected during Fitur 2026—A key point for the airline industry
At an event where meetings run back-to-back, schedules change constantly, and information moves in real time, connectivity is essential. For airline teams moving between exhibition halls, private meetings, and side events, having reliable internet is far from a minor detail.
This is where solutions like Holafly’s monthly plans come in. Designed for professionals who travel for work, they ensure constant connectivity without relying on traditional roaming or crowded Wi-Fi networks.
With Holafly’s monthly plans, you can stay connected in Spain and over 160 countries worldwide from the very first minute. Their global eSIM provides reliable mobile data for video calls, sending emails, managing your schedule, and even sharing live highlights from the event.
All this without physical SIM changes or complex procedures. Ideal for teams that are constantly moving in and out of the IFEMA Madrid venue.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Where and when will Fitur 2026 take place?
As is tradition, IFEMA Madrid, Spain’s main exhibition center in the northeast of the city, will host FITUR 2026.
The event will run from January 21 to 25, with several days dedicated to industry professionals and a final opening to the general public. IFEMA brings all the exhibition halls, auditoriums, and networking spaces together in one complex, making logistics easier for both exhibitors and visitors.
How to get there from Madrid?
Getting to IFEMA from different parts of Madrid is quick and easy, even during rush hour:
- Metro: The most convenient way to reach the venue is on the pink Line 8, getting off at Feria de Madrid. It links directly to both the city center and the airport, and leaves visitors just a few steps from the main entrances.
- City bus: Several EMT bus lines (73, 112, 122) link IFEMA with key neighborhoods and major transport hubs in the city. This is a convenient option for visitors staying nearby.
- Car or taxi: IFEMA has direct access from the M-40 and A-2 highways, as well as official parking on site, though on busy days it’s wise to allow extra time.
How to get there from abroad?
For those traveling from other countries, such as aviation industry professionals, IFEMA’s location is strategic.
The venue is just a 10 to 15-minute drive or taxi ride from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. Visitors can also reach it directly on Line 8 of the metro without any transfers, which makes it one of the best-connected exhibition centers in Europe. For visitors coming from Atocha or Chamartín train stations, IFEMA is easily accessible by a combination of metro or taxi, with travel times ranging from 30 to 40 minutes depending on the time of day.
Access, entry areas, and logistics
During Fitur 2026, IFEMA will organize access in a structured way to speed up entry:
- Separate entrances for professionals and exhibitors, with specific accreditation checks.
- Clearly marked entrance areas for each pavilion, avoiding unnecessary crossing.
- Queues organized by type of accreditation, especially in the early morning hours when key meetings are held.
It’s a good idea to get there early on the first day and collect your badge ahead of time, since the halls and main conferences tend to be busiest right at opening.
Recommended routes from nearby cities
- From Barcelona: Plane or AVE train to Madrid, then metro or taxi to IFEMA.
- From Valencia or Seville: AVE train to Madrid + direct metro connection.
- From European cities: Direct flight to Madrid-Barajas, with quick transfer to the venue.
Thanks to its location and excellent connections, IFEMA makes FITUR 2026 a highly efficient event from a logistical standpoint, which is essential for professionals juggling tight schedules and multiple meetings each day.
How much will it cost to attend Fitur 2026?
To attend FITUR 2026, visitors need an official ticket, with the type of pass depending on the visitor’s profile and the day of attendance. The first days are mainly geared toward industry professionals, which makes them especially relevant for those in the airline sector.
Types of tickets available
Following the usual pattern of previous editions and official information from IFEMA Madrid, FITUR usually offers two main categories of tickets:
- Professional ticket: Designed for executives, companies, airlines, tourism authorities, and industry suppliers, it provides access to the full professional program, including exhibition halls, B2B areas, conferences, and networking activities.
- General admission (weekend): Available during the final days of the event, it is aimed at the general public. Access is more limited, and it does not focus on business meetings or professional activities.
For those connected to the airline industry, a professional ticket is the recommended choice, as it provides full access to the fair’s strategic program.
Approximate prices for Fitur 2026
The official prices for Fitur 2026 are:
- One-day professional admission: $32 if tickets are purchased online ($16.50 according to the promotion valid until January 1); $45 at the box office.
- Permanent professional pass: $62 if tickets are purchased online ($32 according to the promotion valid until January 1); $82 at the box office.
- General admission (only valid for the weekend of January 24 and 25): $20 if tickets are purchased online ($16.50 according to the promotion valid until January 1); $20 if purchased at the box office.
- Admission is free for children under 8 and for people with disabilities.
Official purchase channels
Tickets for FITUR should only be purchased through official channels to avoid fraud or access issues:
- Online sales on the official IFEMA website (digital ticket).
- Advance purchase with professional accreditation.
We do not recommend purchasing tickets from unauthorized third parties, especially for international visitors.
Accepted payment methods
For online purchases, IFEMA usually accepts:
- International credit and debit cards.
- Electronic payments enabled on the official platform.
Tickets are issued in digital format, which speeds up entry to the venue.
Terms of use, changes, and refunds
Please note:
- Tickets are usually personal and non-transferable, linked to the visitor’s accreditation.
- In most cases, refunds are not permitted once the purchase has been confirmed.
- Changes to dates or ticket types are subject to the specific conditions published by IFEMA and are not always available.
Airline professionals with packed schedules should plan their key meetings and dates in advance and opt for professional passes that allow the most flexible access.
Frequently asked questions about Fitur 2026
Although FITUR started as a tourism fair, the aviation industry plays a central role. Airlines, airports, and connectivity authorities participate actively, using the fair to shape new routes, negotiate joint marketing agreements, and plan expansion strategies. For airline professionals, FITUR is both a tourism event and a key forum for network and business planning.
For aviation professionals, it is best to attend during the trade days, which are usually the first few days of the fair. This is when the following events take place:
– B2B meetings.
– Institutional presentations.
– Strategic conferences.
The days open to the general public focus more on promotion and experiences and are generally less relevant for business decision-making.
Yes, especially if you need a professional pass. Advance accreditation allows you to:
– Avoid long lines on the first day.
– Access exclusive areas for professionals.
– Organize meetings in advance within the venue.
At an event the size of Fitur, arriving with your accreditation already sorted is key to optimizing your time.
While it may seem like just an event, real deals take shape at FITUR. While many parties do not sign agreements on the spot, airlines and destinations use the fair to start or strengthen partnerships, plan new routes, and build strategic collaborations. It acts as the hub where key industry interests come together and set the stage for the year ahead.
Absolutely. FITUR is not an event for “improvising.” The airlines that get the most out of the fair tend to:
– Arrive with a set agenda.
– Be clear about your business objectives.
– Identify key destinations and partners in advance.
With the right preparation, FITUR 2026 becomes more than just a trade fair. It serves as a strategic business tool in the airline industry’s annual calendar.
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