Madrid–Barajas Airport to Ban Overnight Stays
Starting Thursday, July 24, Aena will prohibit overnight stays in the airport’s public areas. The policy is designed to keep the terminals functioning as pure transit spaces and to protect the airport’s safety and cleanliness.
- Only passengers with valid boarding passes, authorised staff, and approved accompanying people may enter the terminals during night‑time hours.
- Security personnel will check documentation at the entrances of Terminals 1, 2, and 4 to ensure that only those with a legitimate reason are admitted overnight.
- Aena estimates that between 300 and 400 individuals were staying overnight in the airport’s public spaces, many of whom were vulnerable homeless individuals or airport users seeking cheaper accommodation.
Motivation Behind the Measure
Aena has emphasised that the ban is not intended to criminalise homelessness but to uphold safety, cleanliness, and the proper function of the airport. Terminals are “exclusively transit structures” and are not suitable for long‑term stays.
Collaboration with Social Services
In partnership with Madrid’s municipal social services and third‑sector organisations, Aena will assist those affected by the policy. The city’s La Latina municipal shelter and other support centres will provide alternative accommodation and assistance. Social workers have already been active in the terminals in recent weeks to inform individuals of the upcoming changes and to offer support options.
Summary:
- Rule enforcement begins July 24.
- Access restricted to passengers with boarding passes, authorized staff, and approved accompanying persons.
- Security checks at Terminals 1, 2, and 4 will enforce the overnight ban.
- Aena is collaborating with Madrid’s municipal shelter and social workers to relocate those staying overnight.
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New Airport Regulations Address Emerging Shelter Usage
Policy Context and Geographic Reach
Across Europe, major transport hubs are increasingly serving as de facto shelter sites. The latest rules aim to tackle this trend, echoing similar measures recently adopted in Italy, France, and the United Kingdom.
Primary Objectives
- Safeguard airport users from potential safety risks
- Prevent overcrowding that could disrupt normal operations
- Maintain the operational efficiency and security of Barajas
Advocacy Concerns and Counterbalance
While some advocacy groups argue the policy might push vulnerable individuals into deeper crisis, Aena maintains that the overarching goal is to protect the airport community and ensure smooth, secure functioning.
