Málaga Airport expansion: transforming the gateway to the Costa del Sol
Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) has long been the main arrival point for southern Spain, welcoming millions of travellers each year. With demand increasing year on year, however, the airport is entering a new phase of growth that makes it one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region.
The expansion is designed not only to handle more passengers but also to raise the quality of the entire travel experience, which is expected to produce a knock-on effect, influencing tourism, investment and property markets across the Costa del Sol.
Why expansion is needed
Málaga airport welcomed almost twenty-five million passengers in 2024, a number that is expected to continue climbing. Current facilities are close to reaching maximum capacity, with visitors potentially facing long queues at security and passport control during peak times. To remain competitive and support the international appeal of the Costa del Sol, AGP requires more space, more efficient processing and more extensive connections to the wider world. The expansion also forms part of Aena’s strategic plan for 2027 to 2031, which prioritises sustainability, accessibility and passenger comfort.
What will change
The expansion will deliver a significant increase in terminal space, from approximately 80,000m2 to 140,000m2. Older facilities, including Terminal 1 and Piers B and C, will be replaced by a modern pier designed for non-Schengen flights. Processing capacity will also improve dramatically, with more than double the space for security checks and a fivefold increase in departure passport control. Waiting and boarding areas for both Schengen and non-Schengen flights will expand considerably, ensuring passengers have a smoother journey.
The commercial side of the airport will also benefit, with retail zones, restaurants, lounges and VIP spaces increasing by around 40%. On the operational side, new taxiways, upgraded parking and better road access will support traffic flow. Importantly, the project places sustainability and accessibility at the heart of the project, with energy efficient systems and inclusive design for all passengers.
Timeline and investment
The project carries a budget of around €1.5bn. Over €36m has already been allocated for design and planning work, with construction expected to begin in late 2028. The airport will remain fully operational during the works, with completion planned for 2031. Once finished, Málaga will be able to connect to more than two hundred international destinations, compared with the current one hundred and thirty-nine.
What this means for investors
For property investors, developers and tourism businesses, the impact will be far-reaching. Improved global connectivity is expected to increase demand for both short-term rentals and permanent homes along the Costa del Sol, while areas within easy reach of the airport or with strong transport links to Málaga will be particularly attractive. Developments that emphasise sustainability and high-quality amenities will resonate strongly with future buyers and travellers, reflecting the direction of the airport itself.
Tourism will see a boost as greater capacity allows for more visitors, while the improved passenger experience raises expectations for premium services. Hotels, resorts and lifestyle businesses will need to adapt to meet this rising demand.
The opportunity ahead
This expansion will be a transformation of the gateway to the Costa del Sol and a driver of long-term growth in the region. Investors who act early will be best placed to benefit from the changes in connectivity and infrastructure that are now on the horizon.
The growth of Málaga Airport will make property across the Costa del Sol even more desirable, strengthening demand from international buyers and investors. At NVOGA we specialise in identifying the best opportunities in Málaga, Marbella, Estepona and beyond, offering our clients access to prime real estate that is set to benefit most from this new wave of connectivity. Explore our portfolio at www.nvoga.com and let our expert team guide you towards your ideal property on the Costa del Sol.