Madrid-Barajas Airport sees passenger growth amid air cargo challenges

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is experiencing divergent trends in 2026, showing strong passenger growth alongside significant challenges in air cargo operations.

Passenger traffic has seen steady increases, with over 47 million travelers passing through the terminals between January and August, a 4.4% rise compared to the previous year. The airport has expanded its international network, particularly toward the Asia-Pacific region, which saw a 33.5% increase in seat capacity. Notable expansions include new routes such as Hainan Airlines' connection to Haikou, China.

Conversely, the air cargo sector is facing a downturn. Following a period of rapid growth driven by e-commerce and Asian trade flows, cargo volumes in Madrid fell by 10% in July. This decline is attributed to geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which disrupted routes through the Middle East, and new EU customs regulations. Specifically, the G4 procedure requiring item-by-item pre-declaration and a new €3 tariff on low-value shipments under €150 have impacted e-commerce efficiency and contributed to delays.