Airports
81 newsIt keeps the Spanish angle clear, linking public decisions, local events and everyday practical impact. Updates are written for English-language readers who need clear Spain-focused context without losing the human detail behind each story.
Volcanic ash shuts Jakarta airport, disrupts flights across Indonesia
Jakarta’s main airport closed after Anak Krakatoa erupted, sending ash into the airspace. More than 22,000 passengers and 300 flights were affected, with airlines cancelling routes to major Asian and European cities.
United Airlines Restores Direct Valencia–New York Flights After 15 Years
Valencia will regain a direct air link to New York in June 2027. United Airlines will operate three weekly flights, marking a major step for the city’s international connectivity. The route returns after a 15-year break.
Three Arrested After High-Speed Robbery Chase Ends at Barajas Airport
Police in Madrid detained three men with extensive criminal records after a violent café robbery and a reckless car chase that ended at Barajas Airport. The suspects drove a stolen vehicle and endangered multiple road users.
Drone Sighting Forces 30-Minute Closure at Málaga Airport
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport halted all operations for 30 minutes after a drone was spotted near the runway. Several flights were diverted. Authorities quickly responded, but delays continued as normality was restored.
One of the World’s Largest Private Jets Lands in Mallorca
A rare Boeing 747-8 BBJ, among the largest private jets globally, arrived in Mallorca from Doha. The aircraft’s imposing size and discreet arrival sparked speculation, but the identities of its passengers remain unconfirmed.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Set for Official Name Change
The Spanish government is preparing to rename Palma de Mallorca Airport to Palma-Mallorca Airport, aligning with the city’s official name and keeping the island reference. The change is not yet final, and the airport’s PMI code will remain unchanged.
Aena Rejects Second Madrid Airport, Focuses on Barajas Expansion
Aena has ruled out converting Casarrubios del Monte into Madrid’s second commercial airport, citing airspace and operational issues. Instead, the airport operator will invest over €4 billion to expand Barajas, aiming for a capacity of 90 million passengers a year.
Major Earthquake in Colombia Leaves Over 160 Dead and Disrupts Transport
A 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit Choco, Colombia, causing severe damage and casualties. Airports and roads are disrupted, with power and communication outages reported. Authorities and the U.S. Embassy are coordinating emergency response.
Mount Etna Ash Cloud Forces Dozens of Flight Cancellations in Malta
Flights to and from Malta were cancelled and delayed after volcanic ash from Mount Etna reached the island. The disruption hit during the busiest period for tourism. Passengers faced uncertainty as airlines adjusted schedules.
Power Outage at El Prat Disrupts Flights and Forces Diversions
A sudden electrical failure at Barcelona-El Prat halted all takeoffs and landings for two hours. Dozens of flights were delayed, several were cancelled, and ten had to be diverted. The disruption hit during peak summer travel.
Barcelona Airport Hits New Passenger Record in July
Barcelona-El Prat Airport surpassed 5.8 million passengers in July. Growth outpaces the national average, with international routes leading. The airport is set to exceed its annual capacity limit again.
Border Checks Disrupt Italian Arrivals at Barcelona Airport
Spanish authorities have imposed random checks on passengers arriving from Italy. Tourists at El Prat airport faced delays and heat as border controls intensified. The move follows diplomatic tensions between Madrid and Rome.
Spain Launches Random Border Checks for Arrivals from Italy
Spain has reinstated border checks for travelers from Italy. Police now inspect documents for 5–10% of passengers on selected flights. The move follows Italy’s refusal to lift its own restrictions on Spanish arrivals.
Fatal Incident Near Menorca Airport Highlights Dangerous Road Practice
A young man died after being struck by a taxi near Menorca airport. Taxi drivers warn of repeated dangerous behavior linked to a nearby nightclub. Police are investigating the circumstances.
Italy Tightens Border Checks for Travelers Arriving from Spain
From August 1, 2026, Italy has reintroduced border checks for passengers arriving from Spain by air or sea. The move, linked to recent migration events in Ceuta, requires travelers to carry valid identification and, for non-EU citizens, proof of legal stay in Schengen.
Groundforce Staff Strike Disrupts Barcelona Airport Operations
From August 4, over 1,100 Groundforce employees at Barcelona-El Prat launch an indefinite strike. The protest targets worsening working conditions and could impact nearly 2 million passengers during peak travel.
Thirteen Tourists Killed in Plane Crash Over Nazca Lines in Peru
A sightseeing plane crashed near the Nazca Lines, killing all 13 on board. The victims include foreign tourists and a guide. Authorities are investigating the cause as the region faces renewed scrutiny over flight safety.
Barcelona and Vietnam Chambers Sign Pact, Eye Direct Air Link
Barcelona and Vietnam's chambers of commerce have agreed to boost economic ties. Talks include a potential direct air route between Barcelona and Vietnam. The move could open new business and tourism opportunities for Catalonia.
Storms Cause Major Flight Delays and Cancellations at Palma Airport
Severe weather in Mallorca has led to over 200 delayed flights and multiple cancellations at Palma airport. Menorca and Ibiza airports continue normal operations as storms bypass these islands.
Near-Miss Between Iberia and Air Europa Jets Over Canary Islands
Two commercial jets narrowly avoided a collision over the Canary Islands. Automated TCAS systems triggered emergency maneuvers. The incident raises new questions about air safety in oceanic sectors.
Aena Auctions Off Abandoned Aircraft at Seville Airport for €10
Aena has launched a public auction for a light aircraft left abandoned at Seville Airport. The starting price is just €10. The move aims to free up space after failed attempts to contact the owner.
Aena to Auction Iconic Abandoned Boeing 747 at Valencia Airport
Aena has launched the process to auction the long-abandoned Boeing 747 at Valencia Airport, ending nearly two decades of uncertainty. The aircraft, once the centerpiece of Pronair's ambitious plans, has stood idle since 2008 and is now officially listed for public sale.
Volotea Drops Vitoria-Madrid Flights, Boosts Barcelona Route
Volotea will end its Vitoria-Madrid flights after low demand, while increasing weekly connections to Barcelona. The change, effective from October, alters travel options for the region and reflects shifting passenger trends.
EasyJet Board Backs £5.2bn Takeover Proposal from US Firm
EasyJet has given initial support to a £5.2bn takeover bid from Castlelake. The deal faces strict EU ownership rules and must pass a shareholder vote. The US firm has until August to confirm its intentions.
Delta Airbus A330 Makes Emergency Landing at El Prat After Bird Strike
A Delta Air Lines Airbus A330 bound for Seattle was forced to return to Barcelona-El Prat after colliding with a bird. Emergency services met the aircraft on landing. Air traffic was temporarily adjusted to ensure a safe approach.
Level to Halt Barcelona Flights to Boston and Los Angeles This October
Level will suspend its direct flights from Barcelona to Boston and Los Angeles starting in October. The airline cites operational efficiency and shifting demand. The move follows earlier reductions in US-bound routes from El Prat.
Spain Fails to Secure Free Cabin Luggage for All Passengers in EU Air Travel Reform
After years of negotiations, the EU has stopped short of guaranteeing free cabin luggage for all air travelers. Spain opposed the final deal, arguing it leaves consumers exposed to extra fees. Airlines retain flexibility to charge for hand luggage.
The first test flight of the unique aircraft is scheduled for June 2026
NASA Prepares Supersonic X-59: Transatlantic Flight in 3 Hours Becomes More Realistic. NASA and Lockheed Martin are finalizing preparations for testing the X-59 QueSST—an aircraft capable of crossing the Atlantic in three hours without a loud sonic boom. The project could reshape regulations for supersonic passenger flights and open up new routes.
The Dalian Jinzhouwan project promises to transform the region’s aviation and logistics
China Builds Massive Airport on 20 km² Artificial Island. China is constructing the unique Dalian Jinzhouwan airport directly on an artificial island. The complex is designed for 80 million passengers annually and can withstand typhoons and earthquakes. It is expected to become a new transport hub connecting China, Japan, and Korea.
Fuel only enough until June: What will happen to flights from Spain this summer
Spanish Oil Companies Warn of Jet Fuel Supply Risks This Summer. Spanish oil companies guarantee jet fuel supplies only until June. Authorities and the industry are seeking solutions amid instability in the Persian Gulf. The tourist season may be at risk.
How Aena's Prize Rule Changes Are Shaping Opportunities for Writers
One Million Euros for a Short Story Collection Sets New Literary Record in Spain. Barcelona hosted the inaugural Aena Prize with a record sum. The winner is an Argentine writer. The event has already sparked debate and discussion within Spain's cultural community.
Authorities restrict US military access to airspace
Spain unexpectedly closes its airspace to US military aircraft involved in Iran conflict. Spain has imposed a complete ban on the overflight of US military aircraft connected to operations in Iran. The decision affects key bases and flight routes. Authorities explained how this will impact relations with Washington.
Agreement gives Basque Country broader powers over aviation and security
Spanish Government Grants Basque Country Control Over Airports and New Areas. Spain has agreed to transfer new powers to the Basque Country. For the first time, regional authorities will gain influence over airport management and migration control. The decision impacts the region’s economy, security, and business.
Key dates for mass disruptions at Spain’s airports revealed
Hundreds of Flights at Risk as Airport Staff Strike Hits Spain During Holiday Peak. Strike dates have been announced for ground staff across Spain. Delays and flight cancellations are expected at major airports nationwide. The decision will affect thousands of passengers and could disrupt holiday travel plans.
Aena retains control over Basque airports what impact will this have on the region
Aena Refuses to Transfer Control of Basque Airports as Dispute with PNV Escalates. Aena has declined to grant the Basque Country real authority over airport management. PNV insists on having not only advisory input but also influence over fees. The dispute may drag on and impact regional investment.
Page 1 by 3