Mallorca approves rail link to Palma Airport

Authorities in Mallorca have approved plans for a major new rail link connecting Palma city centre, Palma Airport and Llucmajor, marking the island’s largest rail expansion in nearly 20 years.

 

The €811 million project is expected to carry around 8.5 million passengers annually and will include a dedicated station integrated directly into the airport terminal. Travel time between central Palma and the airport is estimated at just 12 minutes, offering a faster and more reliable alternative to road transport.

The new line will span approximately 30 kilometres and form part of the island’s SFM rail network, connecting with existing lines at Son Costa–Son Fortesa. This will allow passengers to easily transfer to other parts of Mallorca, including the main interchange at Plaça d’Espanya.

The route will include multiple stops across Palma and Llucmajor, serving residential areas, key infrastructure such as Hospital Son Llàtzer, and coastal zones near s’Arenal.

Unlike earlier proposals for a light rail or tram system, the approved project will use a heavy rail system, including underground sections to avoid congestion. Around 10 kilometres of the route will be built using tunnelling methods.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, with completion targeted for 2032. Preparatory infrastructure work is expected to start later in 2026.

Officials say the project will significantly improve connectivity for both residents and tourists, while also reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact by encouraging a shift away from private vehicles.

The rail link is seen as a key step in modernizing Mallorca’s transport network and strengthening access to one of Spain’s busiest airports.