Plus Ultra airline scandal triggers resignations, Zapatero probe

President Julio Martínez Sola and CEO Roberto Roselli of Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas resigned after prosecutors linked them to the 53 million‑euro state loan granted during the pandemic. Both admitted that the airline paid a 1 % commission – about €530 000 – to three firms owned by Julio Martínez Martínez, as compensation for “accompaniment” services in securing the loan from the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (SEPI).

Investigators allege former prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero used his influence to favour the rescue, with claims that he may have received the same 1 % fee. Police seized jewels from Zapatero’s office valued at roughly €1.3 million, and prosecutors have asked a court‑ordered appraisal to determine their market value and origin. A judge of the Audiencia Nacional rejected Zapatero’s attempt to nullify procedural actions on the grounds that the filing was outside the legally prescribed 20‑day deadline.

The rescue was approved by the Spanish Council of Ministers on 9 March 2021. The investigation continues, with the former airline executives summoned to testify in September and the broader case remaining under judicial scrutiny.