Malaga Airport Secures €829.7 Million Boost for 36 Million Capacity by 2031
Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport is undergoing a significant expansion, backed by a **€829.7 million** investment approved by Spain's Council of Ministers. This program, part of the larger DORA III framework, will boost the airport's annual passenger capacity to 36 million by 2031. The improvements aim to enhance terminal facilities, security, and passenger flow to accommodate the growing demand for travel to the Costa del Sol.
Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, a crucial gateway to Andalusia, is set for a transformative upgrade with a substantial investment of €829.7 million approved by the Spanish Council of Ministers.12 This significant funding package is earmarked for the period between 2027 and 2031, clearing the way for the initial major phase of a broader €1.5 billion expansion project.3
The investment is a key component of AENA’s (Aeropuertos Españoles y Navegación Aérea) DORA III airport programme, which outlines nearly €13 billion in infrastructure improvements across Spain’s airport network for the same five-year period.5 The goal for Malaga Airport is to significantly enhance its operational capacity, increasing its annual passenger handling capability to 36 million.1 This represents a considerable boost from its current capacity of approximately 30 million passengers per year.
Key Expansion Details
The comprehensive expansion plans focus on several critical areas to improve efficiency and passenger experience:
- Terminal Area Enlargement: The airport’s terminal space is projected to expand from around 80,000 square metres to approximately 140,000 square metres, nearly doubling its size.2 This will involve reconfiguring existing facilities and the demolition of older structures like Terminal 1 and Piers B and C.3
- New Non-Schengen Pier: A new pier dedicated to non-Schengen flights will be constructed, featuring centralised border control.5 This is particularly relevant for international travellers, including those from the UK, who form a large proportion of Malaga’s visitors.
- Enhanced Security and Passport Control: Plans include expanding security screening areas, with some sources indicating an increase of up to 112%, and significantly enlarging departure passport control facilities, potentially by 515%. These improvements aim to alleviate bottlenecks during peak travel times.1
- Additional Infrastructure: The project also includes improvements to surrounding road access, expanded parking facilities, and the construction of new taxiways to streamline aircraft movement.2 The two existing runways are considered sufficient to handle long-term demand.
- Redesigned Baggage Handling: A more efficient baggage handling system is part of the upgrade, alongside increased retail and dining spaces.3
Responding to Record Growth
The investment comes as Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport continues to break passenger records. In July 2026, the airport processed over 3.04 million passengers, marking the first time in its history that it surpassed the three-million threshold in a single month.4 This historic surge represents a 6.3% increase compared to July 2025.4 Furthermore, between January and May 2026, the airport welcomed more than 10 million passengers, a 7.1% increase over the same period last year.4 In 2025, the airport handled 26.76 million passengers, solidifying its position as Spain’s fourth busiest airport.4
AENA and Spain’s Ministry of Transport justify the expansion by citing sustained passenger growth and the increasing pressure on existing facilities, particularly during busy seasons. The planned enhancements are designed to manage this rising demand efficiently and maintain high service standards.
What This Means for Life in Costa
For foreign buyers and owners of new-build homes in Malaga and the surrounding Costa del Sol, this significant investment in the airport is excellent news. Enhanced connectivity and smoother travel experiences directly contribute to the region’s appeal and accessibility. Easier and faster access to and from Malaga means that visiting your property, whether for holidays or extended stays, becomes more convenient and enjoyable. This improved infrastructure supports the region’s vibrant tourism sector and underpins the long-term desirability and value of the developments we recommend across the Costa del Sol. The airport’s expansion reinforces Malaga’s status as a premier European destination, ensuring it remains well-equipped to welcome international visitors for decades to come.
Frequently asked questions
What is the total investment planned for Malaga Airport's expansion?
Spain's Council of Ministers has approved an investment of €829.7 million for Malaga Airport for the period 2027-2031, as part of a larger €1.5 billion expansion project.
When will the Malaga Airport expansion be completed?
Construction work for the expansion is scheduled to begin in 2027 and is expected to be completed by 2031.
How much will Malaga Airport's passenger capacity increase?
The expansion aims to increase Malaga Airport's annual passenger capacity to 36 million, up from its current capacity of approximately 30 million passengers.
What specific improvements are planned for Malaga Airport?
Planned improvements include nearly doubling the terminal area, constructing a new non-Schengen pier with centralised border control, enhancing security and passport control facilities, adding more boarding gates, and improving road access and parking.
Why is Malaga Airport undergoing this expansion?
The expansion is a response to the airport's record-breaking passenger numbers, with over 3 million passengers in July 2026, and a sustained increase in demand, ensuring it can accommodate future growth and maintain service quality.
How does this expansion benefit foreign buyers on the Costa del Sol?
The airport expansion ensures enhanced connectivity and a smoother travel experience, making it more convenient and enjoyable for foreign buyers and owners to access their properties in Malaga and the Costa del Sol, thereby supporting regional appeal and property values.
