Barcelona's El Prat Expansion Moves Closer as Aena Awards Key Planning Contracts

Aena, the Spanish airport management company, has taken a significant step toward expanding Barcelona's El Prat airport by awarding contracts for the drafting of the master plan and the environmental assessment of the project. The public company aims to begin construction in 2029, according to reports from Ara and ara.cat.

AraAena continues taking steps so that the expansion of Barcelona airport begins in 2029

"Aena, the public company that manages airports in Spain, is advancing in the works to begin the expansion of El Prat airport in 2029."

Ara reported that Aena awarded the master plan drafting, which sets the foundations for the infrastructure, alongside the environmental assessment. The initial actions will prioritize environmental compensations for protected areas that could be affected by the project, according to ara.cat.

"Initial actions focused on environmental compensations for protected areas affected by the project."

The environmental assessment and compensations are critical for a project that has faced opposition from environmental groups and local communities concerned about the impact on nearby natural spaces. By addressing these issues early, Aena appears to be laying the groundwork for a smoother approval process, Ara noted.

Aena's move signals continued momentum for the long-debated expansion, which is expected to increase capacity at the busy Catalan airport. The 2029 target for construction start provides a clear timeline, though regulatory hurdles and public consultation remain ahead.