Aena has officially launched the tender for a significant infrastructure project at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, focusing on the construction of a new rapid exit taxiway. This development is designed to streamline aircraft movements and reduce the time planes spend on the runway after landing, ultimately increasing the overall capacity and operational efficiency of the terminal.
The project carries a budget of 17.5 million euro and is a key component of the airport’s strategic growth plan. The works will involve the creation of a new path that allows aircraft to vacate the runway at higher speeds, minimising the interval between consecutive landings and take-offs. This improvement is particularly vital as the airport continues to see record-breaking passenger numbers, with the facility aiming to handle up to 26 million passengers annually in the coming years.
In addition to the taxiway itself, the contract includes the installation of new high-mast lighting towers, advanced beacons, and the extension of the perimeter security fencing. To ensure that daily flight schedules are not impacted, the construction has been scheduled to take place over a 27-month period, with much of the heavy work being carried out during night shifts and off-peak seasons.
This investment follows a series of other improvements at the Elche-based airport, including the renovation of boarding gates and the upcoming expansion of the terminal building. While regional leaders continue to advocate for a second runway, this new rapid exit taxiway represents a practical step by Aena to optimise the existing runway and prepare for the 2027-2031 investment cycle.