Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
PMI
ICAO Code
LEPA
Palma de Mallorca Airport Quick Facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Carretera de l'Aeroport, s/n, 07611 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain |
| Website | www.aena.es/en/palma-de-mallorca.html |
| Airlines | Over 70 airlines including Ryanair, Vueling, easyJet, Air Europa, Iberia, Eurowings, and TUI fly |
| Terminals | 1 main passenger terminal with three levels, plus a dedicated General Aviation Terminal |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 30 million |
| Hub for | Air Europa, Vueling, Ryanair (seasonal base) |
| Phone Number | +34 913 211 000 |
Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), also known as Son Sant Joan, is the third-largest airport in Spain and one of the busiest international gateways in the Mediterranean. It serves as a major hub for European leisure travel, connecting the island to over 150 destinations. The airport boasts a modern, single-terminal design and processes approximately 30 million passengers annually, making it a crucial entry point for exploring the Balearic Islands.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Terminal Map and Layout
The airport features a single, three-story passenger terminal built around a linear and modular design for efficient passenger flow. The terminal is divided into Modules A, B, C, and D, with Module A currently undergoing significant remodeling to modernize its infrastructure. Getting from the furthest point in Module D to the main shopping area in Module C typically takes about a 10-minute walk. Moving walkways are plentiful throughout the central corridor, making connections smoother post-security.
Navigating Palma de Mallorca Airport Terminals
Planta 0 - Arrivals Level
This is the ground floor where all arrivals enter. Here you will find the baggage claim halls, the lost and found office, the official tourist information desk, and a large meeting point. All car rental counters are also located on this level, making vehicle collection convenient immediately after landing.
Planta 2 - Check-in and Tax-Free
The check-in hall spans the entirety of the second floor. This level handles all airline ticketing and baggage check-in. The office for VAT refunds (Tax-Free) for non-EU residents is located on this floor. Passenger-only access to security control begins from this level.
Planta 4 - Departures and Commercial Zone
The top floor serves as the main departure area with access to all boarding gates. After clearing security, passengers enter the expansive duty-free shopping arcade, which leads directly to a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and retail outlets that connect to all gate areas.
Transportation to and from Palma de Mallorca Airport
The airport is located just 8 kilometers east of Palma city center, making transfers quick and straightforward. You can choose between public buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, or a pre-booked rental car. The journey into the city center typically takes around 15 minutes, though this can extend during the peak summer holiday season.
Getting to and from Palma de Mallorca Airport by Car
The airport connects directly to the Ma-19 motorway, offering easy access to the city center, the Playa de Palma resort strip, and the rest of the island. Traffic is generally moderate, but early morning and late afternoon on summer weekends can see heavy congestion entering the city.
Parking Options:
- General Parking: Located directly opposite the terminal, a 2-3 minute walk. Cost is approximately $30 per day (€28).
- Long-Stay Parking: Outdoor parking with a free shuttle bus every 12 minutes (5-6 minute transfer). Prices start at roughly $13 (€12) per day or about $98 (€90) for a full month.
- VIP Valet: Drop your car right at the Departures curb. Rates begin at approximately $39 (€36) per day.
- Express Departures: The first 10 minutes are free, ideal for quick drop-offs. After that, it is roughly $1.20 per minute.
- Express Arrivals: The first 15 minutes are free for pick-ups. Rates increase sharply if you exceed the grace period.
👉 TIP: Booking your parking online in advance through the official Aena website can secure significant discounts, especially during summer.
Getting to and from Palma de Mallorca Airport by Rideshare or Taxi
Uber operates in Mallorca, alongside local taxi services. The designated pickup area for both taxis and ride-hailing services is located directly outside the Arrivals hall on Planta 0. Fares to the city center typically cost around $22-$27 (€20-€25), while trips to the Playa de Palma area are $15-$20 (€14-€18). During peak summer times, long queues can form for taxis, making Uber or pre-booked transfers a time-saving alternative. Payment by cash or card is widely accepted.
Getting to and from Palma de Mallorca Airport by Public Transportation
The EMT bus service offers the most affordable link to the city. Route 1 connects the airport directly to Palma city center and the port, while Route 2 serves the popular resort areas of Playa de Palma and S’Arenal. Using a credit card at the reader upon boarding now provides a significant discount compared to cash payment.
| Route | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Fare (Card) | Fare (Cash) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1 (City Center/Port) | 06:00 | 01:30 | Every 15 min | $3.20 (€3) | $5.40 (€5) |
| Route 2 (Playa de Palma) | 07:00 | 22:30 | Every 45 min | $3.20 (€3) | $5.40 (€5) |
👉 TIP: Always use the credit card reader upon boarding. A 40% discount is exclusive to contactless card payments. Group discounts are also available for multiple passengers paying by card.
Key Amenities at Palma de Mallorca Airport
ATMs
Multiple ATMs are dispersed across every terminal level, including the Arrivals hall (Planta 0), the Check-in area (Planta 2), and the Departures lounge (Planta 4). Most are operated by national Spanish banks and dispense Euros.
Lost and Found
The Lost and Found office is managed by Aena and is located on Planta 0 in the Arrivals hall. You can contact them via email at [email protected]. If you have lost an item on an airplane, you must contact your airline directly.
Luggage Services
Luggage trolleys are available for a small fee, usually 1 Euro coin deposit. A luggage wrapping service is available on Planta 2 in the check-in area, typically costing around $8 (€7) per bag.
Pets
Pets must remain in their carriers inside the terminal unless they are service animals. There is no dedicated indoor pet relief area post-security, so plan accordingly before check-in.
Showers
Shower facilities are available inside the Mestral VIP Lounge on Planta 4. Travelers not eligible for lounge access can pay a day pass fee to use this amenity.
Currency Exchange
Exchange offices can be found in the Arrivals hall and the Departures lounge, typically open from 06:00 to 22:00 to match flight schedules.
Smoking Area
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located outside the Departures and Arrivals levels before security. No smoking is permitted post-security.
WiFi
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the Aena network and open your browser to accept the terms and conditions. Plentiful charging stations are located near gates, specifically in the newly renovated Module C area.
Other Amenities
The airport features a 24-hour medical service located on Planta 0 for emergencies. A multi-faith chapel and prayer room is also available in the Arrivals area. Information desks are staffed during operating hours to assist with directions and tourist inquiries.
Airport Lounges at Palma de Mallorca Airport
Palma de Mallorca Airport offers several premium lounges for relaxation before your flight. While airline-specific lounges are limited, the independent and credit card-affiliated options provide excellent amenities for all types of travelers.
Mestral VIP Lounge
- Location: Planta 4, after the central security checkpoint.
- Features: Shower suites, hot and cold buffet, a well-stocked bar, quiet workstations, and panoramic runway views.
- Access: Available to Schengen and non-Schengen passengers. Access via Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, or by paying a day pass starting at approximately $40 (€37).
Air Europa Lounge
- Location: Planta 4, boarding gates area.
- Standout Features: Modern Spanish decor with a focus on local Mallorcan snacks, coffee, and a self-service bar.
- How To Access: Business class passengers on Air Europa and SkyTeam Elite Plus members. Not available for standard day passes.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mestral VIP Lounge | Planta 4 (Central) | Priority Pass / Day Pass | $40 (€37) | Showers, Hot Buffet, Bar, Views |
| Air Europa Lounge | Planta 4 (Gates) | Business Class / Elite | Not Available | Local Cuisine, Quiet Area, Bar |
Other Airports in the Region
While Palma de Mallorca is the primary international airport, travelers heading to smaller islands may consider nearby connections.
Menorca Airport (MAH)
- Distance to Palma: Not applicable (requires a 45-minute flight).
- Best for: Island-hopping to Menorca. If your final destination is Ciutadella or Mahón, this is essential.
- Unique Advantage: A smaller, quieter airport with shorter queues, known for its beautifully designed modern terminal architecture.
Ibiza Airport (IBZ)
- Distance to Palma: Not applicable (requires a 50-minute flight).
- Best for: Reaching Ibiza and Formentera. Not a viable alternative for Mallorca due to the over-water distance.
- Unique Advantage: High-frequency summer flights for the clubbing season.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Overview
The airport opened to civilian traffic in the mid-20th century, replacing the older Son Bonet aerodrome. Locally it is often referred to as Son Sant Joan Airport, named after the rural estate the land once occupied. Sitting just 8 meters above sea level, the airport is located precisely 8 kilometers east of Palma's historic center and 3 kilometers north of the Playa de Palma beach strip. It functions as both a civilian and military base, with the Spanish Air Force operating from the southern side. The terminal currently handles passengers across four modules, while the General Aviation Terminal handles private jet traffic. Palma de Mallorca Airport is consistently ranked among the top ten busiest airports in Europe during the peak summer months.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Postal Code
Full Postal Code: 07611
City: Palma de Mallorca
Province/State: Balearic Islands
Country: Spain
Complete Mailing Address: Aeropuerto de Palma de Mallorca, Carretera de l'Aeroport, s/n, 07611 Palma, Illes Balears, España
Duty Free and Shopping at Palma de Mallorca Airport
The commercial zone on Planta 4 is a highlight, offering a wide array of duty-free shopping and Spanish delicacies. Since the UK left the EU, British travelers can once more take advantage of tax-free pricing on tobacco and liquor on flights returning to the UK.
The main duty-free store stocks local Mallorcan products. You will find ensaimada pastries, sobrassada sausage, and Flor de Sal sea salt, alongside global brands in cosmetics and confectionery. Designer boutiques and sportswear shops are also available, though the selection of local souvenirs here is excellent and competitively priced compared to city center tourist shops.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Ensaimada (Cabello de Ángel) | Food Souvenir | $12 (€11) |
| Sobrassada (Mallorcan Cured Sausage) | Food Souvenir | $8 (€7.50) |
| Flor de Sal (Natural Sea Salt) | Food Souvenir | $5.50 (€5) |
| 1L Tanqueray Gin | Duty Free Liquor | $16 (€15) |
| 200 Marlboro Gold Cigarettes | Duty Free Tobacco | $65 (€60) |
Security Wait Times Palma de Mallorca Airport
Palma de Mallorca Airport is infamous for long security queues during the summer peak. The airport has introduced dedicated lanes for British travelers to process the new Entry/Exit System biometric checks, which has helped ease pressure at passport control.
| Terminal Area | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Central Security (Planta 4) | 15-25 mins (off-peak) | 06:00 - 09:00, 15:00 - 18:00 |
| Central Security (Peak Summer) | 45-90 mins | All day during July/August weekends |
| Module A Security (British Lanes) | 20-30 mins | Mornings (weekend departures) |
👉 TIP: During peak summer (June-September), arrive a full 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. Outside of summer, 2 hours is sufficient. The new biometric EES lanes for British passport holders have significantly sped up the border process, leaving the main security checkpoint as the primary bottleneck.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
Departures Drop-Off (Planta 2): The outer lane is strictly for active unloading. You cannot park or wait here; the time limit is strictly enforced. If you need to accompany someone inside, use the General Parking or Express Departures car park, which offers 10 minutes free on Planta 0.
Arrivals Pick-Up (Planta 0): Directly outside the baggage claim exit. The Express Arrivals parking offers 15 minutes free for quick pick-ups. The meeting point inside the hall is clearly marked with a large "MEETING POINT" sign near the tourist office.
Cell Phone Waiting Lot: There is no official free cell phone lot. Your best option to wait for free is to stall briefly at the nearby gas station or supermarket parking lot off the Ma-19 before your passenger calls to say they are curbside. Alternatively, wait in the Long-Stay parking's initial free zone if available.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Palma de Mallorca Airport
The airport is a powerhouse for European leisure routes, particularly to Germany and the United Kingdom. Primary airlines include Ryanair, which operates dozens of seasonal routes across Europe; Vueling, which connects the island to major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid; and Air Europa, which acts as the main long-haul connection hub. Eurowings and Condor funnel thousands of German tourists daily during summer. TUI and Jet2.com dominate the UK charter market. Popular domestic destinations include Madrid, Barcelona, Ibiza, and Valencia. International high-traffic routes connect to London-Gatwick, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Amsterdam.
Getting to and from Palma de Mallorca Airport
The distance from the island's top resorts makes having your own transport a major asset. While taxis and buses cover the city, remote coves and mountain villages are tricky to reach on a schedule.
Car Rental at Palma de Mallorca Airport
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Mallorca's hidden beaches and the Tramuntana mountains. Car rental counters are located on Planta 0 in the Arrivals hall. Companies operating on-site include Sixt, Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Goldcar, and Enterprise. Most operate from the main parking structure, Levels 0 and 1.
The shuttle pickup point for off-site rental companies like Enterprise/National is located at the Transport Meeting Point. Walk to the multi-story car park, cross the zebra crossings, and exit through the red door to find the dedicated shuttle bay.
Popular vehicles include compact cars for navigating Palma's narrow streets and SUVs for mountain roads. Automatics are available but book up quickly in summer. Advance booking is non-negotiable in July and August to avoid high walk-up rates of over $100 per day.
👉 Start your journey right: Compare car rental deals here to secure an SUV or convertible for your Mallorcan road trip.
Palma de Mallorca Airport Taxi Services
The official airport taxi rank is just outside the Arrivals area. Taxis are white and display a green light when available. The fare to the city center is around $22 (€20). To Port d'Alcúdia in the north, expect to pay between $80-$90 (€75-€85). There is a supplement for airport trips and a higher night rate.
Private Car Services at Palma de Mallorca Airport
For a fixed, predictable price, private transfer services bookable in advance are an excellent choice. Drivers meet customers inside the Arrivals hall with a name sign, assist with luggage, and offer a direct ride to your hotel. This is especially recommended for families with children or early morning arrivals when bus frequency is low.
Bus Services at Palma de Mallorca Airport
The EMT city buses Lines 1 and 2 are the most economical routes from the airport. The bus stop is located directly outside the Arrivals terminal. Cross the first traffic lane to reach the covered walkway leading to the bus stops. Paying by contactless credit card on board is now the standard method, offering a substantial discount over cash.
Hotel Shuttles
Many large resort hotels near Playa de Palma and S’Arenal offer complimentary shuttle services. However, city center boutique hotels generally do not due to road access limitations. Always confirm with your hotel 48 hours before arrival if a shuttle needs to be booked in advance.
Parking at Palma de Mallorca Airport
Palma de Mallorca Airport provides a comprehensive range of parking solutions, from the seven-story General Parking structure directly opposite the terminal to outdoor Long-Stay options. Electric vehicle charging points are available on Levels 0, 2, 3, and 4 of the General Parking and in the Long-Stay lot. Payment is managed by automatic machines that accept cash and card; simply take your ticket with you to pay before returning to your car.
👉 Important Note: Due to ongoing terminal remodeling, some parking zones might be temporarily relocated. Always check the official Aena airport website for the latest real-time parking guidance before driving to the airport.
Places to Explore Near Palma de Mallorca Airport
- Palma City Center: 8 km, 12-minute drive. The stunning Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Almudaina Palace, and narrow old town streets packed with tapas bars.
- Playa de Palma: 5 km, 8-minute drive. A long sandy beach with a vibrant promenade, commonly referred to as the "Ballermann" stretch.
- El Arenal: 8 km, 10-minute drive. The main hub for German tourism, with a long maritime promenade and numerous water sports facilities.
- Castell de Bellver: 12 km, 15-minute drive. A unique 14th-century circular castle with stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Palma.
- Serra de Tramuntana: Access point at Valldemossa is 25 km, 30-minute drive. A UNESCO World Heritage mountain range offering world-class hiking and stone-built villages.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Mallorca
Mallorca boasts a classic Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days per year. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) in July and August. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F). Spring and autumn offer the sweet spot, with average highs of 20-24°C (68-75°F), ideal for cycling and hiking without the tourist crowds. Peak beach season runs from late May to early October.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrival Time: Arrive 3 hours before your flight in summer, 2 hours in winter.
- Flight Status: Check the Aena app for real-time gate updates and delay notifications.
- Packing: Pack beachwear in your carry-on during summer so you can head straight to the sand upon arrival. Security strictly enforces liquid limits.
- Currency: The Euro is the only accepted currency. A mix of cash for small tapas bars and a fee-free card for larger purchases is perfect.
- Language: Mallorquín and Spanish are the official languages. English is widely spoken in resorts but less so in rural areas.
- Documentation: Non-EU travelers (including Brits) must ensure their passport is stamped on entry and exit under the new EES biometric system.
- Driving License: US and UK license holders can drive for up to 6 months without an International Driving Permit, though carrying one is beneficial for insurance checks. Non-EU licenses must be a valid physical card and accompanied by a passport.
- Fuel Stations: The closest fuel station is the Repsol station located just off the airport roundabout on the Ma-19, perfect for refilling a rental car before return.
About the City
Mallorca is much more than a beach destination. It was a strategic trading post for the Romans and Moors long before the Spanish crown reclaimed it. The city of Palma was founded as a Roman camp in 123 BC. Today, it serves as the capital of the Balearic Islands with a population of roughly 400,000 residents.
Dining in Palma is an art form, from the traditional pa amb oli (bread with oil and tomato) to Michelin-starred experiences. Visitors should actively wander through the Santa Catalina market for fresh oysters and tapas. Cultural visits must include the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and the Pilar and Joan Miró Foundation. Palma provides a sophisticated urban base that complements the beach resort life perfectly.
Start Your Journey at Palma de Mallorca Airport
Touching down at Palma de Mallorca Airport marks the beginning of a Mediterranean adventure that seamlessly blends history, gastronomy, and stunning natural beauty. Don't let rigid transfer schedules limit your exploration; picking up a vehicle directly from the terminal opens the door to secret coves and mountain roads.
Book your rental car in advance to ensure the best rates and vehicle availability, making your Mallorca journey truly seamless.
Frequently Asked Questions about Palma De Mallorca Airport (PMI) Airport
Everything you need to know before traveling through Palma De Mallorca Airport (PMI)
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