The Spanish royal family was not pleased after Ryanair used a photo of Queen Sofia in an advertisement for the budget airline.
The Irish company used the Queen’s image in a Spanish national newspaper campaign after it was revealed she had flown with them this week.
The half-page adverts – headlined “Fly like a monarch” – read: “It’s a privilege for us that Queen Sofia flies with the biggest growing airline in Spain.”
A spokesman for the palace said: “We are upset and surprised. Nobody has approached us (from the airline) about this issue.
“An image of the Queen is being used improperly.”
In the adverts, Ryanair promised to donate 5000 euros (£3470) to the charity on the Queen´s choice.
But the palace spokesman added: “We are not going to get involved with this advert or any donation coming from the improper use of the image of Dona Sofia.”