Aena to Revamp Sabadell Airport by 2026 – Investment & Expansion Plans

Aena to Revamp Sabadell Airport by 2026 – Investment & Expansion Plans

January 30, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Business

Aena, the Spanish airport network, has committed to a significant overhaul of the Sabadell Airport during the first half of 2026. This pledge, made during a meeting with the Sabadell Chamber of Commerce this Thursday, centers on a review of the airport’s master plan, last updated in 2001, with the goal of fostering growth.

Strategic Review and Current Status

Despite not currently including investment in Sabadell Airport within its 2027-2031 DORA III plan, Aena has assured Chamber representatives of its intention to enhance the infrastructure. Currently, Sabadell Airport ranks as the second busiest airport in Spain for general aviation, trailing only Madrid-Cuatro Vientos, handling approximately 60,000 operations annually.

Did You Know? Sabadell Airport currently supports over 400 jobs, according to Aena President Ramon Alberich.

The airport has successfully established itself as a key hub for aeronautical services and is home to a popular flying club. However, Alberich identified two primary challenges: limited connectivity and a lack of space for expansion. The updated master plan is expected to address these issues by improving road access and increasing the usable area of the complex, potentially attracting more business activity.

Regional Infrastructure Needs

Alberich emphasized the need for improved infrastructure in the Vallès region, specifically highlighting the importance of completing the B-40 and Ronda Nord road projects, as well as the Horta tunnel. He connected the delay in these projects to a historical pattern of underinvestment in the area.

Data presented by the Chamber of Commerce indicates that while the Vallès Occidental region is the second highest recipient of total investment over the past 25 years – behind Barcelona – it ranks 35th in investment per capita. The Chamber argues this disparity is unfair, given the region’s role in absorbing industrial and population growth exceeding Barcelona’s capacity.

Expert Insight: Aena’s commitment to review the master plan suggests a proactive approach to addressing long-term infrastructure needs, but the absence of current funding within the DORA III plan indicates that progress will likely be contingent on securing additional resources and demonstrating a clear return on investment.

The Sabadell Chamber of Commerce itself has increased its budget by 11% for 2026, following a year of balanced finances and increased activity in free programs focused on sustainability, business advice, and training for companies, startups, and young people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of Sabadell Airport?

Sabadell Airport is currently the second busiest airport in Spain for general aviation, with approximately 60,000 operations annually, and supports over 400 jobs.

What are the main challenges facing Sabadell Airport?

The airport faces challenges related to its connectivity and limited space for expansion, according to Aena President Ramon Alberich.

What is Aena’s plan for the airport?

Aena has committed to reviewing the airport’s master plan, last updated in 2001, to identify opportunities for growth and improvement, with a target for implementation during the first half of 2026.

Will these planned improvements be enough to address the historical underfunding of the Vallès region and unlock its full economic potential?