Aena to Invest 110 Million Euros to Renovate Barcelona Airport's Sea Runway

Modernization works will begin in November and require closing the main runway for two months.

Generic image of an airport runway with ground markings.
IA

Generic image of an airport runway with ground markings.

The airport operator Aena has pledged over 110 million euros to upgrade Barcelona-El Prat Airport, focusing on resurfacing the sea runway and improving ground traffic efficiency.

Starting this November, the infrastructure will undergo a series of renovations scheduled to last until 2028. These works aim to reduce aircraft waiting times and carbon emissions by optimizing taxiing routes, independent of the broader expansion plans for the facility.

"This way, when it is extended, two-thirds of it will already have new surfacing."

Eva Valenzuela · Director of Barcelona-El Prat Airport
The most significant part of the project involves the 06R-24L runway, which requires a full pavement renewal after 21 years of service. This will necessitate a 60-day closure during the winter season of either 2027 or 2028 to minimize the impact on airline schedules.
Operations chief Jaume Bauza also highlighted a 3.1 million euro project for the cross runway. A new rapid exit will be constructed to allow pilots to reach terminals faster during night hours, saving both time and fuel for carriers operating at the Catalan hub.