Spain’s €51m Pegasus helicopters grounded: Questions raised over traffic fines

Spain's €51 million Pegasus traffic surveillance helicopters have reportedly halted operations from three bases following the private operator, Eliance, entering preliminary insolvency proceedings. The contract, awarded to Eliance for over €51 million, now faces uncertainty as the company informs its 230 employees of measures to protect the business.

The CCOO trade union has raised concerns with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska about the future of the service, which has been criticized for its use in collecting fines rather than enhancing road safety. Eliance's reported financial losses of €24 million last year and its previous issues with public-sector agreements, as warned by the CCOO, have raised doubts about its ability to deliver the expanded flying hours initially promised.

The DGT, responsible for aerial traffic surveillance, has also faced problems with ageing helicopters, obsolete components, and staffing shortages. The financial success of Spain's speed cameras, which generated a record €246.8 million in fines in 2025, has been attributed partly to new radar installations. However, the relationship between spending on roadside enforcement and fine income remains unclear.

The recent disruption highlights concerns about Spain's investment in road safety and the contingency plans in place when a contractor for a major public service faces financial difficulties.