Spanish airport set for £985m expansion to manage EES queues

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAlicante airport welcomed more than 1.6 million travellers in March 2026 (Getty)Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández airport is scheduled for a £985 million expansion project over five years, commencing in 2027 and concluding in 2031. A key part of the upgrade involves constructing a new terminal specifically for non-Schengen area traffic, which will include centralised border control to manage queues for the new Entry-Exit System (EES). The expansion aims to mitigate potential delays for travellers, including British holidaymakers, following Ryanair's concerns about several European airports' readiness for high passenger volumes. Further enhancements will include an increase in boarding gates, new retail spaces, a VIP lounge, and the expansion of car park facilities. The EES, a digital register for non-EU nationals entering or exiting the Schengen area, was fully implemented on 10 April, making the airport's planned expansion crucial for managing future passenger flow. In fullPopular Spanish airport to undergo £985 million upgrade starting next yearMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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