The recent activities surrounding the assembly of the Asamblea Majorera–Coalición Canaria (AM-CC) have brought to light serious concerns regarding military operations on Fuerteventura. The spotlight is on the alleged misuse of the island’s territory for military drills, particularly after the landing of two Spanish military helicopters in a sensitive ecological area near El Cotillo, within the municipality of La Oliva.
AM-CC has expressed significant discontent and raised alarms regarding the potential environmental impacts of such military maneuvers. According to their statements, at least part of the area affected by the helicopters falls within the Zone of Special Protection for Birds (ZEPA), highlighting the ecological importance of the location and the risks posed by such operations.
Residents are understandably concerned, not just about the immediate environmental implications, but also about the noise pollution generated by the helicopters. AM-CC noted that the overflights and operations can significantly disrupt local wildlife, potentially placing native species at greater risk of harm. “The noise generated by these aircraft has a considerable environmental impact, deteriorating the soil during landing maneuvers and threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem,” the organization articulated.
In the eyes of local residents, the matter goes beyond environmental concerns. AM-CC insists that the military operations are accompanied by several safety violations, including breaches of flight altitude regulations and operational hours. The intersection of military activity and civilian life raises questions about the safety and well-being of those who call this area home.
Following these recent events, AM-CC has conveyed a growing apprehension about the normalization of military activities on the island. This worry is compounded by the previous deployment of the Canarias XVI Brigade (BRICAN XVI) in May, part of ongoing Permanent Operations by the Armed Forces as per national defense planning. The rise in military presence spurs apprehension that such occurrences may become all too common, profoundly affecting the local community and environment.
AM-CC stresses that incursions into spaces that are not designated for military operations should not be considered acceptable or routine in Fuerteventura. They emphasize that the historical context of military land use must be acknowledged, referencing the Ministry of Defense’s appropriation of more than 4,000 hectares along the Barlovento coast for military exercises since 1973. The presence of these helicopters in non-designated areas seems unjustifiable and raises questions about the allocation and management of military spaces on the island.
“Why conduct maneuvers in this sensitive area when there are ample designated spaces available?” the organization questioned, highlighting a disconnect between military actions and the protocols of land use. Furthermore, local leaders voiced frustrations regarding the lack of communication from the Armed Forces concerning these operations. Residents and local institutions were not informed in advance, leading to a sense of exclusion and disrespect towards the people of Fuerteventura.
This absence of transparency has only added fuel to the fire, generating a belief among residents that once again, Fuerteventura is being treated as a mere playground for military drills rather than a community deserving of respect and consideration. AM-CC advocates for the demilitarization of the island, positioning military incursions as direct violations of environmental integrity and the unique vulnerabilities of Fuerteventura’s landscape.
Highlighting the importance of collaborative governance, the organization underlines that these recent military activities undermine previously established institutional agreements made between various levels of government, including local administrations, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Senate.
