Aena has announced a massive €700 million investment to expand Barcelona-El Prat Airport’s Terminal 1, with plans to gain 70,000 square metres of additional space. The ambitious project will move the terminal’s facade 38 metres forward, representing a 15.5% increase in the current infrastructure.
Major Infrastructure Transformation Ahead
The Barcelona airport expansion project will significantly enhance the terminal’s capacity, adding to the existing 450,000 square metres. Construction work is scheduled to begin in 2028 and complete between 2031 and 2032, coinciding with other major infrastructure improvements including extending the sea runway to accommodate more intercontinental flights.
Eva Valenzuela, director of Barcelona-El Prat Airport, explained the complex technical and operational challenges ahead. The terminal will remain fully operational throughout the construction period, requiring careful planning to minimise passenger disruption.
Enhanced Security and Passenger Experience
The expansion will accommodate new EDSCB security screening machines, which require more space than conventional X-ray equipment but allow passengers to keep electronics and liquids in their bags. This €39 million security upgrade involves installing 52 new machines by the first quarter of 2027.
The project forms part of Aena’s broader €3.2 billion investment programme to expand Barcelona airport infrastructure and extend the third runway. Vehicle access routes will be relocated to create space between the terminal and car parks, whilst the disused control tower from 2005 will be demolished.
Record Passenger Numbers Drive Expansion
Barcelona airport continues to break passenger records, with 38,396,761 travellers recorded between January and August this year – a 4.1% increase compared to 2024. The airport is operating at capacity limits, making this expansion crucial for future growth.
During construction, passenger flow patterns will change significantly. Current entrance doors will be temporarily closed with alternative routes established, and vehicle traffic including taxis and buses will be redirected to new lanes.
Join our WhatsApp broadcast channel to get all of the news delivered to you
