Spain’s airport operator AENA has announced plans to invest €621.6 million in Palma de Mallorca airport between 2027 and 2031, representing a 46.7% increase on the €424 million allocated for the previous five-year period. The funds will be directed towards upgrading runways, taxiways, and parking facilities at the island’s busiest airport.
To help cover the cost, AENA has proposed raising the average annual passenger fee at Palma airport by 35 cents, although the company said this could be reduced to 25 cents if certain incentives are applied. Renovations to the airport's terminals were already scheduled under the current Airport Economic Regulation Document (DORA), while the new DORA III framework for 2027–2031 envisages a broader programme of infrastructure improvements.
Under the plan, work will include refurbishing flight operation areas such as platforms and runway pavements, renewing boarding bridges, and upgrading public access areas ahead of security controls. Parking areas will also be remodelled, and photovoltaic panels installed on terminal roofs.
Investments at Son Bonet and other Balearic airports
Son Bonet airport, closer to Palma city, is set to receive €7.9 million over the same period – almost three times the €2.7 million spent in the previous five years. The investment will focus on access improvements, runway and platform rehabilitation, upgraded drainage and security systems, fencing, and office refurbishments. Plans to install a solar plant at the airport will continue. AENA has suggested financing these works through a 25-cent passenger fee rise, potentially falling to 10 cents with incentives.
Meanwhile, Ibiza and Menorca airports are due to see €229.7 million (+202%) and €170.7 million (+336%) in investment respectively. Much of this will go towards enlarging security control areas to accommodate new equipment and meet border control requirements. Reconfigurations will also create single access zones to non-Schengen boarding areas, aimed at streamlining passenger flow.
Enhancing passenger experience
The redevelopment plans will increase overall surface area by around 29%, including non-passenger spaces such as offices and storage, meeting AENA’s quality standards. The upgrades form part of the operator’s wider strategic infrastructure plan for the Balearic Islands between 2027 and 2031, reflecting a focus on operational efficiency and improved passenger experience.