Palma de Mallorca Airport – What to Expect When You Land 🛬

If you're flying into Mallorca, you’ll most likely land at Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) — the main international gateway to the island and one of the busiest airports in Spain, especially in summer. Whether you're visiting for beaches, cycling, or just good food and sunshine, here's everything you need to know about PMI — from what it’s like to land here, to how to actually get where you're going once you arrive.

✈️ A Quick Look at Palma Airport

Palma Airport is located just 8km from Palma city centre, which makes it super convenient if you're staying in or near the capital. In high season (May–October), the airport gets very busy — we’re talking over 30 million passengers a year, with August being the peak month. Don’t be surprised if the arrivals hall is buzzing with people from all over Europe!

Despite the crowds, the airport is modern, clean, and generally easy to navigate. The terminals are well signposted, and the layout is simple — especially if you're flying with one of the big holiday airlines.

🏗️ Constant Upgrades—But Airports Always Feel Crowded

It’s no secret: PMI struggles a bit during peak season. Long lines, busy car parks, and crowded drop-off zones are par for the course. But the good news? They’re working hard to improve things:

🔧 Major Modernisation (€400–550 million, finishing by 2026)

• Revamp of Modules A & D, better flows & commercial spaces

• 7 new airbridge gates—say goodbye to long boarding walks

• Expanded parking garages & rental car zones

• A slicker security checkpoint (now on Level 2) with better screening tech

• Solar panels and sustainability upgrades with nearly €12 million invested

• €160 million from the European Investment Bank to update baggage systems, safety, HVAC, and security

🌱 Sustainable Upgrades

• Low‑emission recycled steel being used in construction, cutting CO₂ by 40 % (~1,900 tonnes)

• A new 19 MW solar farm at nearby Son Bonet designed to power 40 % of PMI’s energy needs and drop 8,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually

• Swissport rolled in as the ground-handling operator, bringing electric vehicles and aiming for full electrification by 2028

🚖 Getting From the Airport – Transport Options

You’ve landed, you’ve got your bags... now how do you get to your hotel? Here are your main options for getting from Palma de Mallorca Airport to your destination:

🏝️ Tourism Overflow vs Local Benefits

Sure, Mallorca is full—and PMI’s passenger stats reflect that. Locals are understandably concerned about overtourism—with protests and rising costs playing a part. But tourism makes up around 80 % of the island’s economy, so the push has moved from “how many tourists” to “how do we manage them?” Expanding the airport is part of that—better handling capacity, smoother traffic flow, and less stress on local infrastructure.

🛫 Final Thoughts

Palma Airport is a hub of activity—and it only seems to get busier. But the upgrades coming through by 2026 will make a real difference: smoother flow, better passenger experience, and more eco-friendly operations.

If you're landing here:

• 🕑 Plan time—arrive early in peak season

• 💼 Be patient—but know improvements are on the way

• 🚗 Use official transport options to avoid fines

Once you’re through customs and out to the car rental or bus, you're only 10 minutes from sun, sea, coffee, or pastries—and really, that's when your Mallorca story starts.

Looking for more local tips?

• 🌴 Best Beaches in Mallorca

• 🍷 Things to do in Mallorca

• 🛏️Where to stay in Mallorca

Nos vemos en la isla! 🌴🌞