Palma Airport Construction Update: Check-In Terminal Changes

Tuesday, December 16th, 2025

Passengers travelling through Palma de Mallorca Airport should be aware that the building works as part of Aena’s long-term modernisation programme are far from over. While some sections of the terminal are now fully operational, the right-hand side of the check-in area was closed for construction works on Tuesday, 16/12/2025 and will remain out of bounds for the foreseeable future.

Below is an overview of what is currently happening at Son Sant Joan, how it affects departures, and what travellers can expect over the coming months.

Construction takes right-hand side of check-in area out of service

Following the completion of works on the left-hand side of the check-in and departures level, construction activity has now shifted entirely to the right-hand side of the terminal. This area has been taken out of service and is expected to remain closed for several months.

Passengers departing from Palma Airport should therefore expect altered routes through the terminal, with temporary passenger flows. Clear signage and additional staff are in place to guide travellers to check-in, security and boarding areas. These measures are designed to minimise disruption, but the reduced space in the departures hall may still be noticeable at busy times.

The ongoing works include major structural changes, such as the construction of a new vertical core with stairs and lifts linking different levels of the terminal, as well as the refurbishment of airline offices and retail areas. The overall aim is to improve space distribution and efficiency once the project is complete. See here for more information on this.

Wider airport modernisation and timeline

The closure of the right-hand side of the departures terminal forms part of a wider redevelopment of Palma Airport, one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects on the island in recent years. Aena has confirmed that the works will continue beyond next summer. However, the passenger experience is expected to feel largely normal again during the peak summer season of 2026, even though some technical and less visible works will still be ongoing behind the scenes.

Module D closed for refurbishment until April 2026

In addition to the changes in the main departures area, passengers should note that Module D is currently closed for a major refurbishment programme. The closure began in early November and is scheduled to last until April 2026.

During this period, flights normally using Module D have been relocated primarily to Module C, while Module A has remained open over the winter to help manage passenger volumes more smoothly.

The works in Module D include a complete renovation of the roof, upgrades to air conditioning and lighting systems, and the renewal of ceiling finishes. According to Aena, these improvements form part of its Climate Action Plan, which aims to reduce energy consumption and improve the airport’s environmental performance. See also here.

A long-term project with ongoing disruption

Although a significant portion of the modernisation project has already been completed, travellers should be prepared for continued construction activity across the airport until at least the end of 2026. This includes further technical works, improvements to passenger circulation areas and additional infrastructure upgrades.

Airport authorities have acknowledged the inconvenience caused in recent years but maintain that the scale of the project is necessary to deliver an airport that better reflects Mallorca’s importance as an international destination.

Windmill restoration near Palma Airport

Although unrelated to the airport’s modernisation works, there is also welcome news beyond the terminal buildings. Plans are in place to restore and preserve a number of historic windmills located in the vicinity of Palma Airport. These traditional landmarks are clearly visible from the air and, for many passengers, offer a familiar and reassuring first glimpse of the island, whether arriving in Mallorca for a holiday or returning home.

The restoration initiative aims to protect wind and water-extraction mills situated on public land or areas managed by Aena, in recognition of their cultural, historical and landscape significance. Once restored, they will continue to form part of the island’s distinctive character, providing memorable first and last views for travellers arriving in or departing from Mallorca.

What departing passengers should expect over the next few months

For now, passengers flying from Palma Airport should allow extra time, follow on-site signage carefully and be aware that the right-hand side of the departures terminal remains closed due to ongoing works. While disruption is expected to ease gradually, building activity will remain a visible feature of the airport experience for some time yet. We will continue to follow developments closely and keep you informed, so do check back soon for the latest updates.