Spain Faces Widespread Homelessness Crisis Across Major Airports

Spain's major airports, particularly Madrid-Barajas, Malaga, and Palma, are facing a growing crisis with an increasing number of homeless people living in the terminals, estimated at around 400 in Madrid alone. This situation has led to significant health and safety concerns, including reports of insect infestations such as bed bugs, cockroaches, and fleas, which have affected both passengers and airport workers. The homeless population at these airports has created unsanitary conditions, with reports of drug use, violence, and makeshift sleeping areas in public spaces. In response, Spain's state-owned airport authority Aena has implemented stricter access controls at Madrid-Barajas, limiting terminal entry after 9 pm to travelers, employees, and companions, aiming to reduce the number of rough sleepers. However, this has raised concerns that displaced homeless individuals may relocate to other airports like Malaga, where the issue is also longstanding. Legal responsibility for addressing these challenges lies with local and regional governments, as Aena has limited authority beyond managing airport security and access.