Billion-Pound Investments for Palma Airport: Major Project Nears Completion, Next Expansion Approved
Tuesday, September 15th, 2026
Palma de Mallorca Airport is undergoing the most comprehensive modernisation phase in its history. As the major €560 million project launched in October 2022 nears completion, the Spanish government has already given the green light for the next investment package: a further €621 million will be funnelled into the island’s gateway from 2027 onwards.
The Final Stretch: Terminal Reorganisation Nears Completion
Modernisation work has been transforming the terminal since autumn 2022. The ambitious €560 million redesign of the building, originally designed by Pere Nicolau, is now drawing to a close, with final completion scheduled for February 2027.
Visitors and passengers are already benefiting from a wide range of noticeable improvements designed to make their time at the airport even more seamless:
- Expanded departure gates: Passengers in Modules A and D can now walk straight onto their flight via eight new jet bridges, bypassing the need for tarmac buses.
- Redesigned security checkpoint: A newly created security area on Level 2 consolidates 40 state-of-the-art luggage inspection belts and 20 advanced security lanes into one central location.
- Modernised passenger area: Following the relocation of security control, a redesigned passenger lounge was created on the fourth floor, featuring attractive retail and dining options alongside shorter walking distances to Modules A, B, and D.
- Optimised exterior: Significant work has also taken place outside the arrivals terminal. Alongside a central bus station and a relocated taxi rank, passengers can now use convenient travelators to reach the covered pedestrian bridge leading directly to the main multi-storey car park. A dedicated entry and exit route from the car park has been established for hire cars.
- Tailored access for inter-island flights: A dedicated, streamlined access area complete with its own security lane has been introduced for regional travel between the Balearic Islands.
Remaining Work Until Early 2027
Final milestones leading up to the February 2027 completion date include the completion of the central connecting hub between floors, final resurfacing of the access roads, installation of the remaining two jet bridges in Module A, and the opening of permanent restaurants on the Level 4 outdoor terrace.
Looking Ahead: The €621 Million DORA III Project
With the 2022 overhaul nearing the finish line, airport operator Aena is already setting its sights on the next stage. Under the government’s DORA III framework, a further €621.6 million is earmarked for Palma Airport between 2027 and 2031.
This follow-up project will seamlessly build upon current works, placing a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and sustainability:
- Runways and apron: Essential maintenance and resurfacing on the runways, along with an expansion of apron capacity, form the core of these measures.
- Cutting-edge security tech: Security screening and baggage inspection systems will be upgraded to the latest generation of technology to further enhance safety standards and processing times.
- New airport fire station: A modern rescue and firefighting facility will be constructed to boost operational safety.
- Infrastructure overhaul: Alongside the gradual replacement of all jet bridges, the airport’s entire electrical supply network will undergo a complete overhaul.
Funded Without Taxpayer Money
In more good news for travellers, the DORA III expansion will be fully funded by Aena’s operational revenues rather than taxpayer money. Passengers will also see virtually no impact on costs, with airport fees rising by just a few pence.
