Canary Islands government warns of exclusion from new national transport pass

The Government of the Canary Islands has expressed concern regarding the Spanish state's new 'Abono Único' public transport program, claiming the current framework could exclude the archipelago. The program aims to allow travelers to use a single pass across different transport networks throughout the country.

Regional authorities have communicated their doubts to the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, highlighting that the current design does not account for the Canary Islands' unique jurisdictional complexities. Specifically, officials noted that the program does not currently accommodate the 'Bono Residente Canario' and that transport competencies are split between the regional government, island councils (cabildos), and municipalities.

While the Canary Islands government has expressed interest in becoming a pilot territory to integrate various island transport systems, participation is voluntary and requires formal legal agreements. Local authorities must also adapt their technological systems to meet national standards. The regional executive is currently seeking clarification on financing mechanisms and how the archipelago can participate without being 'absolutely expelled' from the system.