Are you travelling to the Canary Islands and wondering if there’s a smoking area at Tenerife South Airport (TFS)? Today, we want to answer this common question among passengers passing through the island. It’s important to know the rules of the place you’re visiting to avoid any issues.
Current Smoking Regulations in Spain and at Airports
Firstly, it’s important to understand that Spanish law prohibits smoking inside airports, except in specifically designated areas. These areas are located outdoors, such as on terraces set up for smokers.
Just as smoking is not allowed in any enclosed space within the airport, it’s also prohibited on commercial aircraft. This measure applies not only to cigarettes but also to other tobacco products and electronic cigarettes.
With this guide, we aim to help you save time and effort when trying to find a place to smoke a cigarette at TFS. Being unaware of the airport’s layout and rules can be frustrating, so having this information in advance will help you plan your journey better.
Locations of Designated Smoking Areas at TFS
So, can you smoke at Tenerife South Airport? The answer is yes, but only in areas specifically designated for smokers. These zones are outdoors and clearly marked so you can identify them easily.
At TFS, there are two smoking areas: one located in the VIP Lounge and the other outside the terminal building. Smoking outside these areas could result in a fine.
The VIP Lounge (Montaña Roja) Terrace: Access & Cost
One of Tenerife South Airport’s smoking areas is located in the Montaña Roja VIP Lounge. Access to this lounge is granted to business-class passengers and members of frequent flyer programmes. It’s also possible to pay for entry at the lounge reception.
The Montaña Roja VIP Lounge offers a comfortable environment where you can relax while waiting for your flight. Services include food, drinks, Wi-Fi, television and digital press. There’s also a terrace where the designated smoking area is located.
Parking Areas or External Zones Near Entrances
The other smoking area can be found outside the airport, near the main entrance. Make sure to check the signs to avoid any issues that could lead to a penalty.
How to Access the Smoking Areas
Finding Signage and Walking Routes
The smoking areas at Tenerife South Airport are well signposted. The Montaña Roja VIP Lounge is located in the boarding area, on Level 2.
Once inside the lounge, you’ll find the terrace where the smoking area is located.
Lounge Passes, Pay-Per-Use, or Membership Access
There are three ways to access the VIP area at TFS: pay at the door, obtain a lounge membership programme, or purchase a prepaid lounge pass. You can stay in the lounge for up to four hours before your scheduled flight time.
Access to the VIP lounge also grants you access to the smoking area.
Timing — When to Go
You’ll be able to access the smoking area after check-in, once you’re in the passenger-only area. The lounge is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
There’s no time difference between Tenerife and the United Kingdom, making it easy to plan your visit.
Rules, Penalties & Etiquette
If you’re a smoker, you should be aware of the rules — breaking them could get you into trouble.
Prohibited Zones and Fines for Violations
The law explicitly prohibits smoking inside Spanish airports. For that reason, designated smoking areas are always outdoors and clearly marked.
Smoking outside these areas can result in fines for those who violate the regulation.
Disposal of Cigarette Waste & Respecting Non-Smokers
Smoking zones are equipped with ashtrays for disposing of dog-ends and other waste. Be sure to use them and keep the area clean and tidy.
Also, be considerate of non-smoking passengers. Cigarette smoke can be unpleasant or even harmful to some people, especially those with respiratory sensitivities or young children.
Integrating Smoking Breaks into Your Tenerife Itinerary
Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Routines
Plan your airport arrival with enough time to enjoy a smoking break before heading to your departure gate. Check your flight times to estimate how much time you’ll need.
Similarly, if you’ve arranged an airport transfer upon arrival, you can enjoy a final smoke before leaving the terminal.
Layover Strategies for Longer Stays
If you have a long layover at Tenerife South Airport, make the most of your time in the smoking areas. Find the VIP Lounge to relax and enjoy a cigarette. If you don’t have access to the lounge, you may need to leave the terminal to smoke and then go back through security.
You can also combine your smoking break with a quick visit to the duty-free shops or airport restaurants.
Amenities and Practical Tips for Using Smoking Areas
What to Expect in the Designated Zones
The smoking areas at Tenerife South Airport are typically equipped with benches, ashtrays, wind protection and ventilation to ensure user comfort.
Alternatives for Non-Smokers or Vapers
Vaping or using e-cigarettes is also prohibited inside Tenerife South Airport. To use these devices, you’ll need to go to the designated smoking areas.
Alternatively, if you don’t smoke, you can relax in the airport’s cafés and lounges, where you can enjoy a drink or snack in a smoke-free environment.
Comparison with Other Canary Islands & Spanish Airports
Tenerife North (TFN) vs South (TFS) Smoking Rules
Unlike TFS, Tenerife North Airport does not have any smoking areas. This means that once you pass through security, there’s no place to smoke. Be sure to take measures before entering the terminal.
Gran Canaria, Lanzarote… What to Expect
It’s possible to smoke at Lanzarote Airport, where there are two indoor smoking areas. The airports of Gran Canaria and La Palma also have outdoor terraces for smokers.
Now you know where the smoking area at Tenerife South Airport is and how it works. This information will help you plan your trip if you like to relax with a cigarette before your flight.
Specialist in the tourism sector of the Canary Islands with a proven track record in experience management in Lanzarote. My work has always focused on promoting iconic destinations and optimizing transfer and excursion services on the volcanic island.
