Spain airport expansion plans spark environmental and political backlash

Planned expansions of Spanish airports are facing intense scrutiny due to their projected environmental impact. A study by Transport & Environment (T&E) indicates that CO2 emissions from aviation in Spain are growing faster than in any other major EU country. The proposed expansion of twelve facilities, including major hubs like Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, Málaga, and Palma de Mallorca, could add 35 million tons of CO2.

In the Balearic Islands, the Airport Regulation Document (DORA III) has met significant political opposition. Regional leaders and various political parties have criticized the plan, which forecasts up to 50 million passengers by 2031, arguing it prioritizes revenue for Aena over local containment of mass tourism. Critics describe the projected growth as a “step backward” that contradicts climate commitments.

Specific concerns have been raised regarding Barcelona-El Prat, where the DESCA Observatory warns that expanding infrastructure could increase pollutant emissions by 21.8% by 2033. While airport operators and airlines suggest that sustainable fuels and increased efficiency will mitigate impacts, environmental groups argue these measures will not be enough to offset the massive increase in flight volume.