The executive vice president of Aena, Javier Marín, announced an ambitious strategic investment plan that will reach 13.000 millones de eurosThe goal is to modernize the Spanish airport network under a self-financing and solidarity model that guarantees connectivity and economic development without resorting to public funds.
A robust and self-funded network model
During his speech at the II AeroSpace Day organized by the IESE Business School, Marín He defended the effectiveness of network management. According to the executive, this structure allows larger airports to support investments in medium and small facilities. "Managing such a complementary network reduces financial risks and will allow us to obtain the resources to carry out the investment plan."the executive emphasized Aena.
The company, which defines itself as the Europe's most efficient airport operatorIt is worth noting that all its activities are funded with its own resources. This model has allowed it to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Terminal 4 of the Aeropuerto Adolfo Suárez Madrid-BarajasThe entity is preparing for a phase of large-scale construction projects that must be compatible with operations and operational security.
Economic sustainability and tariff competitiveness
One of the pillars of the strategy of Aena It is the maintenance of competitive rates. In real terms, these have experienced a drop of 31,2% between 2015 and 2024. For the 2026 fiscal year, the Maximum Applicable Annual Income (IMAA) has noticed 11,03 euros per passengerThis represents a technical adjustment of 68 cents compared to the previous year, based on the revision of prices and accumulated arrears.
| Investment Concept / Indicator | Value / Amount |
|---|---|
| Total planned investment (DORA III 2027-2031) | 13.000 M€ |
| Regulated investment (infrastructure) | 10.000 M€ |
| Impact of air transport on Spanish GDP | 10,5 % |
| Total jobs generated by the sector | 2.000.000 |
| Average fare per passenger projected for 2026 | 11,03 € |
| Investment made between 2015 and 2024 | 4.735 M€ |
This cost policy allows the Spanish network to operate with cost levels between a 40% and 50% lower to those of others hubs Europeans, encouraging the arrival of airlines and strengthening the role of Spain as the second largest recipient of international tourists worldwide.
The challenge of DORA III: The cycle of the next 25 years
The investment plan for the period 2027-2031, integrated into the DORA IIIIt includes key actions in terminal areas, digitalization, sustainability and innovation. Javier Marín has emphasized that this plan "This is the investment cycle that Spain needs for the next 20 or 25 years."ensuring that the allocation criteria are strictly technical and based on demand.
- Digitization: Implementation of new information technologies in passenger control.
- Capacity Expansion of airfields to absorb the growth in air traffic.
- Sustainability: Actions aimed at decarbonization and energy efficiency.
- Safety: Continuous improvement of airport security standards.
Air transport is thus consolidated as the main pillar of the Spanish economy, facilitating the arrival of 82% of international visitors and sustaining a system that is entirely self-financed through commercial and aeronautical activity.
Key points and frequently asked questions about the Aena Plan
How are Aena's investments financed without public money?
Aena It uses exclusively the revenue generated by its own commercial and airport operations. Its network management model allows for the reinvestment of profits from major airports throughout the national infrastructure.
Will airport fees rise drastically in 2026?
No. Although an adjustment to 11,03 euros per passenger is expected (68 cents more than in 2025), the figure is still significantly lower than that of its European competitors and corresponds to a legal formula that includes arrears and inflation.
Will the construction work affect flight operations?
Javier Marín He warned that, due to the scale of the investments, there could be occasional capacity limitations, but always prioritizing the quality of service and the safety of passengers.




