If you’re planning a trip to the Canary Islands, you may find it useful to know the location of the Smoking Area at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), as well as the rules you must follow when using it. In addition, this article will offer a few tips to help make your journey smoother. This airport handles both domestic and international flights, welcoming around 9 million travellers annually.
Smoking in Airports: General Regulations in Spain
Understanding Spanish law in relation to smoking in airports is essential to avoid any unpleasant surprises when you arrive here.
In Spain, Law 42/2010, Article 7, clearly states that smoking is prohibited in airports, unless in designated outdoor areas.
This law also says that regional governments may also impose additional rules on top of the national legislation.
Not all airports in Spain have designated smoking areas, and none allow smoking inside terminal buildings.
Smoking Policy at Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
Here’s the basic information regarding the smoking policy at Tenerife South Airport:
Smoking Prohibited Inside the Terminal
At Tenerife, smoking is strictly forbidden inside any airport buildings — including corridors, waiting lounges, cafés, and even VIP lounges.
Where smoking areas are provided, they are exclusively located outdoors — as is the case at Tenerife South Reina Sofía Airport.
Outdoor Designated Areas
As mentioned earlier, smoking is permitted at Tenerife South Airport, but only in a single designated outdoor smoking area, located before entering the terminal.
Smoking Terrace in the Montaña Roja VIP Lounge (Airside)
Within the Montaña Roja VIP Lounge, you’ll find the only smoking area inside the airport. This space is reserved for passengers who have passed through security and have access to the lounge.
Where to Find Smoking Areas at the Airport
Outdoor Zone Near Arrivals / Terminal Entrance
You may smoke near the main entrance of the airport, in the external area. Always check for signs to avoid legal issues and fines.
Outdoor Area Near Ground Transport Exits
Similar to the arrivals area, there are smoking zones located outside, close to the terminal’s exits. Always check the signs.
Montaña Roja VIP Lounge Terrace (Post-Security)
The Montaña Roja Lounge is the only VIP lounge at Tenerife South Airport. It’s located on Floor 2 in the exclusive boarding zone. You’ll need to pass through security to access it, and once inside, you may stay for up to four hours from the scheduled departure of your flight.
Conditions, Costs, and Restrictions
Access to VIP Lounge (Pricing, Membership)
Business class passengers and members of frequent flyer programmes are granted access to the VIP Lounge.
If you don’t qualify through a programme, you can still purchase access to the Montaña Roja VIP Lounge at the airport or via AENA’s official channels. Entry costs €44.60 for adults and €20.60 for children. The ticket remains valid for six months.
Ban on E-Cigarettes and Vaping
Smoking is prohibited in Spanish airports and on planes — this includes both traditional cigarettes and electronic smoking devices such as e-cigarettes and vapes.
Specifically, Spanish law bans e-cigarette use on aircraft operated by Spanish airlines or on shared-code flights with foreign carriers.
Fines for Smoking in Prohibited Areas
Under current Spanish regulations, smoking in non-designated areas can lead to fines ranging from €30 to €600 for minor infractions. Serious or repeated offences may result in penalties from €601 up to €10,000.
Helpful Tips for Travelling Smokers
If you’re flying to or from Lanzarote and are a smoker, keep the following tips in mind:
- Check in advance where smoking is allowed and how to use the zones where it is approved. Confirm which areas are designated for smoking before your trip.
- If using the VIP lounge, make sure to understand their smoking policies — even if it includes a smoking terrace.
- If you don’t have access to the VIP lounge, plan ahead to use the designated areas outside the terminal.
- Bring nicotine alternatives such as patches or gum to manage cravings, especially on long flights.
- Remember, smoking is not allowed inside aircraft — not even in the toilets — so avoid taking any risks that could lead to fines.
You may also want to check out these general travel hacks for Lanzarote Airport, which might also come in handy for Tenerife South.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I smoke after going through security?
Yes, but only in the terrace of the VIP Lounge at Tenerife South Airport.
Does the VIP Lounge fee only cover smoking access?
No. The VIP Lounge at Tenerife South, managed by AENA, offers much more than a smoking terrace. Amenities include catering, free Wi-Fi, digital newspapers, TV, showers, meeting rooms, children’s play area, rest zone, computers, and accessible toilets.
Not all AENA lounges provide the same services, so it’s a good idea to double-check before purchasing access.
What happens if I smoke inside the terminal?
Smoking inside the terminal can result in significant fines and sanctions. Repeated offences may lead to higher penalties.
Final Recommendations
If you’re a smoker using Tenerife South Reina Sofía Airport, make sure you’re aware of the rules and designated areas. Looking after your wellbeing at the airport and during your flight is important — and breaking smoking rules could result in unnecessary stress or fines.
Remember: after passing through security, smoking is only permitted in the VIP Lounge.
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