Tenerife South Airport – The Gateway to the Sunny South of the Island
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Tenerife South Airport – The Gateway to the Sunny South of the Island
Tenerife South Airport (TFS), officially known as Aeropuerto Reina Sofía, is the larger of the two airports on Tenerife. It is located in the sun-drenched south of the island, near the popular resorts of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.
Opened in 1978, the airport has become a major hub for international tourism on the Canary Islands. With over 11 million passengers annually, Tenerife South Airport is the busiest airport on the island and one of the most important airports in the Canary Islands.
It experiences high passenger volumes, especially during the winter months, as many European tourists visit to enjoy the island’s eternal spring climate.
Tenerife South Airport has a large, modern terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. The short walking distances and efficient organization make it popular among tourists.
✔ Duty-free shops with local products and international brands
✔ Restaurants and cafés
✔ Car rental services directly inside the terminal
✔ Free Wi-Fi
✔ ATMs and currency exchange offices
Tenerife South Airport Highlights
⭐ Popular Holiday Airport: The main arrival point for vacationers from all over Europe
⭐ Year-Round Traffic: The airport remains busy even in the off-season
⭐ Local Canarian Atmosphere: Duty-free shops and restaurants offer Canarian souvenirs and regional gastronomy
📌 Tip: Since Tenerife is a top holiday destination, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early, especially during peak travel seasons!
What Are My Rights in Case of a Flight Delay or Cancellation at Tenerife South Airport?
Flight issues can be frustrating, but did you know that you may be entitled to compensation if your flight is delayed or canceled at Tenerife South Airport? Thanks to the EU Passenger Rights Regulation, your claims are clearly defined and can be quite substantial:
- Compensation between €250 and €600, depending on the flight distance.
- Applies for delays of 3 hours or more, flight cancellations, overbooking, or missed connections.
- The compensation amount is independent of the ticket price.
- You have up to 3 years to claim your rights.
With our support, enforcing your compensation is quick and hassle-free. Use our free compensation calculator to check whether you’re eligible for a payout.
How Should I Proceed in Case of a Flight Delay or Cancellation at Tenerife South Airport?
Checklist for Flight Delays or Cancellations at Tenerife South Airport
Step | Description | Tip |
Obtain written confirmation | Obtain written confirmation from the airline of the reason for the delay or cancellation. | Ask for documentation directly at the airline’s service desk. |
Collect evidence | Save photos, tickets, boarding passes, receipts for additional expenses and any vouchers. | Also keep screenshots of display boards or emails from the airline. |
Secure supplies | Take advantage of catering or accommodation offers from the airline in the event of longer delays. | If necessary, request vouchers for food and drinks. |
Check compensation | Use our online claim calculator to work out how much money you are entitled to in the event of a delay or cancellation. | The calculator determines your possible compensation amount quickly and without obligation. |
Make a claim | Leave the enforcement of your compensation claims to us. | Sit back and relax while we take care of the formalities. |
With this step-by-step guide, you can stay on top of the situation and make the best out of it! 🚀
Under What Conditions Am I Entitled to Compensation for a Delay or Flight Cancellation at Tenerife South Airport?
Are you wondering what conditions apply for compensation in case of flight issues at Tenerife South Airport? The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines these rules and protects your rights as a passenger.
You are entitled to compensation if:
Must always apply | |
Flight departs/arrives in the EU | Your flight departs from the EU or arrives in the EU with an EU airline. |
Airline is responsible | The airline is responsible for the delay or cancellation (e.g., no extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather). |
Flight date within the last 3 years | The flight took place no more than 3 years ago. |
In case of delay, cancellation, overbooking, or missed connection, the following must also apply:
Reason for claim | Description |
Delay | Your flight arrives at its destination with a delay of 3 hours or more. |
Cancellation | The airline informs you of the flight cancellation less than 14 days before departure. |
Overbooking | The flight is overbooked and you cannot find a seat on board. |
Missed connecting flight | Your connecting flight departs without you and you arrive at your final destination 3 or more hours late. |
The amount of your compensation is only about the flight distance – not the price you paid for your ticket:
Flight distance | Compensation | Examples |
Short-haul (up to 1.500 km) | 250 € | z. B. Hamburg – München |
Medium-haul (up to 3.500 km) | 400 € | z. B. München – Athen |
Long-haul (over 3.500 km) | 600 € | z. B. Franfurt – New York |
Use our free compensation calculator to quickly check how much money you are entitled to. If your claim is successfully enforced, you will receive your compensation minus a success fee of 22% plus VAT.
Don’t miss out on your rights – we’re here to fight for you!
What Are My Rights During Long Waiting Times at Tenerife South Airport?
Waiting times at Tenerife South Airport can be frustrating, but did you know that in case of a flight delay or cancellation, you are entitled to extensive care services? The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines your entitlements and protects you as a passenger.
Your care entitlements at Tenerife South Airport:
Flight distance | Care services |
Short-haul flights (up to 1,500 km) | Free meals and drinks after 2 hours of waiting time. |
Medium-haul flights (1,500–3,500 km) | Entitlement to care services after 3 hours of waiting time. |
Long-haul flights (over 3,500 km) | These services are available after 4 hours of waiting time. |
Overbooking | You receive care services immediately, with no waiting time. |
What Services Are You Entitled To?
- Free meals and drinks
- Communication: Two phone calls, emails, or faxes
Tenerife South Airport offers a variety of amenities such as restaurants, lounges, and services to make your waiting time as comfortable as possible. Actively claim your rights and request your care services directly from the airline.
What Can I Do If My Flight Is Canceled Due to a Strike at Tenerife South Airport?
Has your flight from Tenerife South Airport been canceled due to a strike? Don’t worry – as a passenger, you have rights that protect and support you. The EU Passenger Rights Regulation clearly defines what you are entitled to.
Your Rights in Case of Flight Cancellations Due to a Strike:
- Check Your Flight Status:
- Make sure your flight is actually affected by the cancellations.
- Alternative Transport or Refund:
- You have the right to be rebooked on an alternative flight or
- Receive a refund for your ticket.
- Compensation for Airline-Internal Strikes:
- If the strike was caused by the airline itself and does not qualify as an extraordinary circumstance, you may also be entitled to compensation.
Additional Services:
While waiting for a replacement flight or further information, you may be eligible for care services, depending on the waiting time, including:
- Free meals and drinks
- Accommodation for longer delays
- Transport to and from the hotel
What Should You Do?
Contact your airline immediately for information on rebooking, ticket refunds, or available care services. Tenerife South Airport also offers numerous services to make your waiting time as comfortable as possible.
Use our support to claim your compensation quickly and easily. With us, you stay relaxed – even during unexpected flight cancellations! ✈️
Am I Entitled to Compensation for a Flight Delay or Cancellation Due to a Strike at Tenerife South Airport?
A flight cancellation or a delay of more than three hours due to a strike at Tenerife South Airport can be frustrating for travelers. However, your rights depend on who caused the strike.
When Are You Entitled to Compensation?
- Airline-Internal Strike: If the strike is caused by the airline’s own staff, you are entitled to:
- Compensation under the EU Passenger Rights Regulation
- A refund of your ticket price or alternative transportation
- Care services, such as meals, refreshments, or accommodation if necessary.
- Extraordinary Circumstances: Strikes outside the airline’s control, such as airport staff strikes, are considered extraordinary circumstances. Unfortunately, in these cases, no compensation is granted.
What Are You Still Entitled To?
Even in extraordinary circumstances, you have the right to basic care at Tenerife South Airport, including:
- Free meals and drinks
- Accommodation for longer waiting times
- Transportation to and from the accommodation, if necessary.
Our Tip:
Check your flight status and use our online compensation calculator to quickly determine if you are eligible for a payout. With us, you can claim your rights easily and stress-free! ✈️
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How to Reach Tenerife South Airport Easily and Stress-Free?
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is located on the southeast coast of Tenerife, close to the popular tourist resorts of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. Here are the best and most convenient options to reach the airport without stress:
🚍 1. By Bus – The Cheapest and Most Reliable Option
✅ Direct connections from various parts of the island
The airport is well-integrated into Tenerife’s public transport system. Buses are punctual and affordable.
- Line 40: From Los Cristianos & Playa de las Américas to the airport
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €4–5
- Line 111: From Santa Cruz de Tenerife to the airport
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 60 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €9
- Line 343: From Puerto de la Cruz via Santa Cruz to the airport
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 90 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €14
💡 Tip: Buses run regularly, but during peak seasons, it’s a good idea to allow some extra time for travel.
🚖 2. By Taxi – Comfortable and Direct
✅ Fast & convenient, especially if you have luggage
- 🕒 Travel time:
- From Playa de las Américas: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- From Santa Cruz: Approx. 45 minutes
- 💰 Cost:
- Playa de las Américas: Approx. €30–40
- Santa Cruz: Approx. €80–90
💡 Tip: Official taxis have fixed rates, but it’s always good to ask about the estimated price before the ride.
🚗 3. By Rental Car – Flexible and Practical
✅ Ideal for travelers who want to explore the island
- Car rental companies: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Cicar, and local providers
- Direct access: The airport is right next to the TF-1 highway, which connects the south of the island with Santa Cruz and other areas.
- 🕒 Travel time:
- Playa de las Américas: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- Santa Cruz: Approx. 45 minutes
💡 Tip: If you plan to explore the island at your own pace, renting a car is the most convenient option.
🔹 Conclusion: Which Option is Best?
✅ Cheap & reliable: Public bus (from €4)
✅ Comfortable & direct: Taxi (€30–40 from Playa de las Américas)
✅ Flexible: Rental car for longer stays
📌 Recommendation: If you’re traveling from nearby tourist areas, the bus is the best option. If you have lots of luggage or are in a hurry, a taxi is the most convenient solution. 😊✈️
How to Get to Tenerife South Airport by Public Transport?
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is well connected to the island’s public bus network, making it easy and affordable for travelers from different towns and resorts to reach the airport.
🚍 Main Bus Routes to Tenerife South Airport
- Bus Line 40 – From Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos
✅ Direct and fast
- Route: Playa de las Américas → Los Cristianos → Tenerife South Airport
- Travel time: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- Cost: Approx. €4–5
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
💡 Tip: This line is perfect for travelers staying in the southern tourist resorts.
- Bus Line 111 – From Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Capital City)
✅ Direct and reliable
- Route: Santa Cruz → Tenerife South Airport → Playa de las Américas
- Travel time: Approx. 60 minutes
- Cost: Approx. €9
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
💡 Tip: Line 111 is ideal for travelers coming from the capital and central regions.
- Bus Line 343 – From Puerto de la Cruz via Santa Cruz
✅ For travelers from the north of the island
- Route: Puerto de la Cruz → Santa Cruz → Tenerife South Airport
- Travel time: Approx. 90 minutes
- Cost: Approx. €14
- Frequency: Every 60 minutes
💡 Tip: This line is recommended if you’re traveling from northern Tenerife.
🛑 Where Are the Bus Stops at the Airport?
The bus stops are located directly in front of the Arrivals area of the terminal, and all major routes are clearly marked.
📊 Conclusion: Which Bus Line is Best?
✅ From the south (Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos): Line 40
✅ From the capital, Santa Cruz: Line 111
✅ From the north (Puerto de la Cruz): Line 343
📌 Tip: Buses run regularly and are reliable, but allow extra time during peak travel seasons.
How to Get to Tenerife South Airport by Car and Where to Park?
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is easily accessible via the TF-1 motorway and offers a variety of parking options for short- and long-term stays.
🚗 Directions to Tenerife South Airport
The airport is located on Tenerife’s southeast coast, about 60 km south of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and close to Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.
🛣 Best Routes:
- From Santa Cruz:
- Via the TF-1 motorway southbound
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 45 minutes
- From Playa de las Américas or Los Cristianos:
- Via TF-1 southbound (San Isidro exit)
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- From Puerto de la Cruz:
- Via TF-5 southbound, then connect to TF-1
- 🕒 Travel time: Approx. 90 minutes
📍 Address for GPS:
➡ Aeropuerto Tenerife Sur, 38610 Granadilla de Abona, Tenerife
💡 Tip: The TF-1 motorway is the fastest route to the airport and well signposted.
🅿️ Parking Options at Tenerife South Airport
The airport offers different parking options depending on your budget and duration of stay.
🔹 Short-Term Parking – Ideal for Drop-Offs and Pick-Ups
- P1 Parking Area (directly opposite the terminal)
- Walking distance: Approx. 2 minutes to the terminal
- Cost:
- 1 hour: Approx. €1.10
- Daily max price: Approx. €13
💡 Tip: The first 10 minutes are free—perfect for quick drop-offs or pick-ups.
🔹 Long-Term Parking – For Longer Stays
- P1 Parking Lot (also available for long-term stays)
- Cost: From €9.50 per day
- Budget Long-Term Parking (a bit further but cheaper)
- Cost: From €7 per day
💡 Tip: Online reservations can offer cheaper prices and guarantee a parking spot.
- Cost: From €7 per day
🔹 Premium Parking (Valet Parking)
- Service: Drop off your car directly at the terminal, and it will be parked for you.
- Ideal for: Business travelers or those in a hurry
- Cost: Approx. €20–25 per day
📊 Conclusion: Where Should You Park?
✅ Short-term parking: P1 near the terminal
✅ Long-term parking: Budget long-term parking or P1
✅ Maximum convenience: Premium valet parking
📌 Recommendation: If you’re parking for more than a week, the long-term options are the best value. For short stays or pick-ups, P1 near the terminal is the most convenient.
Formularende
When Should I Arrive at Tenerife South Airport?
The recommended arrival time at Tenerife South Airport (TFS) depends on your flight type, airline, and the time of year. Since the airport is heavily used by holiday travelers, you should allow extra time, especially during peak season.
🕒 Recommended Arrival Times Before Departure
✅ For domestic flights (e.g., to Gran Canaria, Madrid, or Barcelona):
➡ At least 1.5 hours before departure
✅ For European flights (e.g., to Germany, the UK, France):
➡ At least 2 hours before departure
✅ For long-haul international flights (outside Europe):
➡ At least 3 hours before departure
💡 Tip: Low-cost airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are very strict with check-in and boarding times. Arriving earlier can help avoid last-minute stress.
⏳ Why Should You Arrive Early?
- Check-in & baggage drop-off: Longer lines are common, especially for charter and holiday flights.
- Security control: Waiting times can range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on passenger volume.
- Passport control: If you’re flying outside the Schengen zone, allow extra time for passport checks.
- Walking distance in the terminal: Tenerife South Airport has a compact layout, but during busy periods, navigating through crowds may take longer.
💡 Tip: If you’re traveling with hand luggage only and have already checked in online, 60 to 90 minutes before departure may be enough—but only if you like taking risks. 😉
🚦 Special Factors to Consider
🔸 Peak travel seasons (winter & summer holidays): Add at least 30 extra minutes.
🔸 Morning flights (between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM): Expect longer security lines.
🔸 Low-cost airlines: Strict boarding deadlines—be at the gate on time.
⏰ When Should You Be at the Gate?
- Domestic & Schengen flights: At least 30 minutes before departure
- International flights: At least 45 minutes before departure
- Most gates close: 15–20 minutes before departure
📊 Summary: When Should You Arrive at the Airport?
✅ Domestic flights: At least 1.5 hours before departure
✅ European flights: At least 2 hours before departure
✅ Long-haul international flights: At least 3 hours before departure
✅ Hand luggage only & online check-in: 60–90 minutes before departure
📌 Recommendation: Arrive earlier during peak travel periods or when flying with low-cost airlines to avoid stress and ensure a smooth experience. 😊✈️
Best Ways to Get from Tenerife South Airport to the City Center
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is well-connected to various cities on the island, including Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the capital) and popular holiday resorts like Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. Here are the best transport options for a comfortable and stress-free journey.
🚍 1. By Bus – The Cheapest & Most Reliable Option
✅ Direct connections to many locations on the island
Public TITSA buses offer a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from the airport.
- 🚌 Line 111: Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Capital City)
- ⏳ Travel time: Approx. 60 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €9
- 📍 Stop: Directly in front of the terminal
- 🚌 Line 40: Los Cristianos & Playa de las Américas
- ⏳ Travel time: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €4–5
- 🚌 Line 343: Puerto de la Cruz (North) via Santa Cruz
- ⏳ Travel time: Approx. 90 minutes
- 💰 Cost: Approx. €14
💡 Tip: Buses run regularly and are ideal for travelers with light luggage.
🚖 2. By Taxi – Fast & Convenient
✅ Direct drop-off at your hotel or destination
- Travel time:
- Playa de las Américas / Los Cristianos: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- Santa Cruz: Approx. 45 minutes
- Cost:
- Playa de las Américas: Approx. €30–40
- Santa Cruz: Approx. €80–90
💡 Tip: Use official airport taxis to ensure fair fixed prices.
🚗 3. By Rental Car – Flexibility & Independence
✅ Ideal for travelers who want to explore the island
- Rental car companies available: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Cicar, and local providers
- Travel time:
- Playa de las Américas: Approx. 20–30 minutes
- Santa Cruz: Approx. 45 minutes
💡 Tip: A rental car is the best option if you’re planning to explore multiple locations on the island.
🚐 4. By Hotel Shuttle – Comfortable & Pre-Arranged
✅ Many hotels offer their own shuttle services
- Availability: Often included in the hotel price or available for an extra fee
- Advantage: No need to organize transport upon arrival
💡 Tip: Check in advance whether your hotel offers an airport transfer.
🔹 Summary: Which Option Is Best?
✅ Budget-friendly & reliable: Bus (Line 111 or 40)
✅ Fast & convenient: Taxi (€30–40 from Playa de las Américas)
✅ Flexible: Rental car for longer stays
📌 Recommendation: Buses are ideal for solo travelers or budget-conscious visitors. If you have lots of luggage or want a direct trip, taxis are the best option.
Hotels & Accommodation Near Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
Here’s a selection of hotels near Tenerife South Airport (TFS) for travelers looking for a comfortable stay close to the airport. Please note that prices vary depending on the season and availability.
- Barceló Tenerife (★★★★★)
📍 Location: 1.6 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Luxury hotel with ocean views, eight swimming pools, free WiFi, and a fitness center
💰 Price: From €273 per night
- Barceló Tenerife Royal Level (★★★★★)
📍 Location: 1.6 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Exclusive setting with a private garden, restaurant, and bar
💰 Price: From €292 per night
- Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife – All Inclusive (★★★★★)
📍 Location: 1.9 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Family-friendly all-inclusive resort with a private terrace, parking, and entertainment facilities
💰 Price: From €330 per night
- Hotel Médano (★★★)
📍 Location: 4 km from the airport (El Médano)
🏨 Features: Beachfront hotel with a terrace overlooking the ocean and free WiFi
💰 Price: From €100 per night
- Hostal Carel (★)
📍 Location: 4 km from the airport (El Médano)
🏨 Features: Simple and budget-friendly accommodation with free WiFi, near the beach
💰 Price: From €50 per night
- Los Martines 1 H (★★★) – Apartment Stay
📍 Location: 3 km from the airport (Golf del Sur)
🏨 Features: Fully-equipped apartments with a kitchen, balcony, and outdoor pool access
💰 Price: From €80 per night
- Kn Hotel Arenas del Mar – Adults Only (★★★★)
📍 Location: 5 km from the airport (El Médano)
🏨 Features: Adults-only hotel with a spa, outdoor pool, and direct beach access
💰 Price: From €120 per night
- Santa Barbara Golf and Ocean Club (★★★★) – Apartment Stay
📍 Location: 3.5 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Spacious apartments with ocean views, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant
💰 Price: From €90 per night
- Alua Atlántico Golf Resort (★★★★)
📍 Location: 4 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Beachfront resort with multiple pools, restaurants, and a fitness center
💰 Price: From €150 per night
- Grand Muthu Golf Plaza Hotel and Spa (★★★★)
📍 Location: 3 km from the airport (San Miguel de Abona)
🏨 Features: Spa, outdoor pool, spacious rooms and apartments with kitchens
💰 Price: From €85 per night
📌 Summary – Best Accommodation Options
✅ Luxury & Comfort: Barceló Tenerife or Bahia Principe Fantasia
✅ Budget-Friendly: Hostal Carel or Los Martines 1 H
✅ Beachfront Experience: Hotel Médano or Kn Hotel Arenas del Mar (Adults Only)
✅ Apartment-Style Stays: Santa Barbara Golf & Ocean Club or Grand Muthu Golf Plaza
💡 Tip: Prices fluctuate based on season and availability, so booking early is recommended!