Barcelona-El Prat Airport is in the midst of an intense debate about its expansion and capacity to take on more intercontinental flights.
With seven proposals on the table, coming from different entities and administrations, and conflicting opinions between environmentalists and modernization advocates, the future of this important infrastructure is at stake.
Currently, the airport has three runways, each with specific functions: the first is used for landings, the second operates at night and the third, located near the sea and the La Ricarda lagoon, is used for takeoffs.
However, this segregated system has created operational problems, especially for larger aircraft that need more runway space to take off safely.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport expansion
Proposals to address this situation are varied. Some involve extending the runways, either by increasing their length or building a new one over the sea.
These options, while offering operational solutions, raise environmental concerns due to the impact on the natural area of La Ricarda and the sea. Other proposals suggest diverting part of the flights to other nearby airports and improving train connections as an alternative to the expansion of El Prat.
Last year, Aena proposed to extend the runway closest to the sea by 500 meters, maintaining the segregated runway system. However, this proposal has generated controversy and is still under debate.
On the other hand, in February 2023, the idea of building a new runway over the sea, at a safe distance from the coast, emerged as an alternative solution.
The latest proposals, presented by the president of the Generalitat, Pere Aragonès, suggest modifying the operation of the runways during the months of July and August to take on more intercontinental flights, without the need to extend the third runway.
However, this proposal faces criticism due to the anticipated increase in noise pollution for residents in nearby areas.
A debate with diverse opinions
In the midst of this debate, opinions are divided. On the one hand, there are pressures to modernize and expand the airport to maintain its competitiveness and growth capacity. On the other hand, there are legitimate concerns about the environmental impact and resource saturation that could result from unbridled expansion.
The creation of a commission to study Catalonia’s airport model and transform El Prat reflects the recognition of the importance of addressing these issues in a comprehensive and collaborative manner.
However, the final decision rests with the central government, which adds an additional layer of complexity to this ongoing debate.
Ultimately, the future of Barcelona-El Prat Airport will depend on finding a balance between operational needs, environmental concerns and social considerations.
