Malaga Airport Expansion Scheduled to Begin in 2029

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport is preparing for one of the most substantial infrastructure upgrades in its modern history. With international passenger traffic continuously breaking records across southern Spain, planning is underway for a major multi-year expansion project scheduled to begin in 2029.

For visitors heading to Nerja and the eastern Axarquía, Málaga Airport serves as the essential gateway. This massive development aims to relieve pressure on the existing terminals, ensuring smoother connections for travellers arriving from across Europe and beyond.

Unprecedented Passenger Numbers

The decision to expand the transport hub comes on the heels of unprecedented operational demand. During the recent summer season, the airport set all-time records by operating 262 routes linking the Costa del Sol directly with 42 countries worldwide.

On peak travel days, passenger numbers surged to around 107,000 individuals within a single 24-hour period. These extraordinary figures have stretched terminal facilities to capacity during high summer, clearly demonstrating the long-term necessity of enlarging the terminal buildings and passenger processing areas.

A Seven-Year Timeline

The comprehensive expansion is slated to commence on site in 2029, with works projected to span approximately seven years. Because the phased construction will take place alongside regular daily operations, planners will aim to minimize disruptions while significantly modernizing airport capacity.

The upgrades will focus on expanding terminal infrastructure, easing passenger flow through check-in, security, and boarding gates. When completed in the mid-2030s, the enhanced facility will be well-equipped to manage growing holiday traffic across Andalusia.

What This Means for Trips to Nerja

Located roughly 50 minutes east of the airport along the coastal A-7 motorway, Nerja relies heavily on Málaga Airport for its international visitors. While the project will not break ground until 2029, travelers planning future visits can anticipate a modernised airport experience once the seven-year scheme is complete.

In the meantime, the current facility continues to handle high volumes, particularly during midsummer peaks. Travellers bound for the Axarquía are advised to allow comfortable transfer times when departing via Málaga during the busy summer months.

Good to know

• Expansion start date: Scheduled to begin in 2029.
• Duration: Expected to span approximately seven years.
• Current flight network: 262 routes connecting 42 countries.
• Peak traffic volume: Reached up to 107,000 daily passengers during peak summer.
• Travel to Nerja: Málaga Airport is situated approximately 50 minutes west of Nerja along the A-7 motorway.