The Hotel Business Association of the Costa del Sol (AEHCOS) has expressed concerns regarding the ongoing disruption of the high-speed rail connection between Málaga and the rest of the country due to the Adamuz train accident. The executive committee of the association states that information from Adif suggests that service normalization might not occur until at least March 23, which threatens to dissuade demand and impact both national and international tourism, particularly in three key sectors: corporate, congress, and city break tourism.

The decline in demand adds to the already deteriorating situation of the coastline following recent storms, creating a worrying prospect as spring approaches, when the condition of beaches typically plays a crucial role in destination choice. According to José Luque, president of AEHCOS, demand has already decreased by 20%, and even up to 30%, leading to direct impacts on hotel occupancy rates and, critically, on Easter reservation forecasts. It is estimated that the impact for the first quarter of 2026 might reach €1.75 billion (21% of the annual effect on the sector), with approximately €255 million loss from national tourism and €45 million stemming from international tourism.

The association leader emphasized that continued instability in service does not guarantee future recovery, as there are fears of additional delays. He also pointed out that the loss of confidence in the AVE could cause other Mediterranean destinations to take advantage of the current precariousness to attract demand. AEHCOS is urging the relevant authorities to restore rail connections to their pre-accident conditions to safeguard employment and the anticipated occupancy for the season.