The redevelopment project at Palma Son Sant Joan Airport, Spain's third busiest airport, is now entering its final phase. Work commenced in late 2022 and is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. The airport will feature, and has been incorporating, state-of-the-art equipment, while reorganisation is aimed at enhancing passenger experience and making the airport a comfortable and attractive place.
Acciona has been in charge of the project, which has involved an investment of €560 million. The goal of creating an operational, comfortable and sustainable airport is a key part of the AENA airports authority's strategy. Priority has been given to objectives such as achieving carbon neutrality this year and zero emissions by 2030, focusing on clean energy, LED lighting, efficient climate control, and more windows to provide greater and better natural light.
Passenger experience is to be enhanced by reducing transit times for boarding, check-in and security. The airport can handle up to 66 flights per hour - 33 take-offs and 33 landings - during peak times, with 100% of the check-in counters now available. Airlines will have offices along these counters to provide better service and improve their operational efficiency. However, the redevelopment will not result in an increase in the number of flights. This is what has been said; opponents of the airport's 'expansion' disagree.
Another objective is to bring shops and cafes closer to the exterior entrances and utilise the extensive rooftop terrace within the Processing Building, which houses arrivals, check-in, security, departures, and retail areas, and so create a pleasant and relaxing space for passengers. There will be a central stairwell and elevator hub within the building, providing efficient access between the three areas: arrivals, check-in and departures.
One of the additions is the Valldemossa VIP Lounge with views of the Tramuntana Mountains and the runways. With capacity for 200 people, its amenities include a work area, showers, and a private terrace.
The reorganisation of check-in will create a more open and better-distributed space. The airline and ground handling offices, along with shops and cafes (which will be relocated closer to the entrance), are the focus of this redesign. The creation of a central communication hub connecting the different floors and levels of the Processing Building, or main building, with escalators and elevators will address the previous lack of direct access between the building's levels.
The shopping area and Duty Free occupy the area that was previously for security controls on the upper floor. This area will showcase local products alongside major brands in restaurants, fashion, leisure, technology, and accessories. Working with 125 suppliers on the island, it aims to contribute to Mallorca's economy and business community. The rooftop terrace, currently underutilised and almost hidden, will be transformed, with cafes and restaurants and children's play areas as well as rest areas.
For non-EU flights, the first major phase of renovations at Module A was completed in 2024. Work is currently focused on extending Module A along its eastern side to add two more boarding bridges. Passport control technology has of course been updated.
The years of the redevelopment have not been without issues. Unions have consistently highlighted health and safety concerns, and there have been accidents.