Barcelona-El Prat to operate on a single runway from 16 to 26 November 2026 during taxiway works

Barcelona-El Prat Airport will operate on a single runway from 16 to 26 November 2026, when runways 02/20 and 06L/24R close for works on a new rapid exit taxiway, according to the airport operator Aena. Aena says this is the main capacity reduction of the project, removing 1,441 slots, about 15% of capacity, during those days.

The works, which Aena announced on 18 September, add a new link between the crosswind runway 02/20 and taxiway T4 so that aircraft can leave the runway faster. The project includes new pavement, drainage, signage and electrical systems and is planned to last 12.5 months. From 21 September until the first half of December, night works with occasional runway closures and taxiway restrictions are scheduled, which Aena says should not affect normal operations.

Aena says it coordinated the schedule with airlines and slot coordinators in advance and that the temporary capacity reduction is already built into flight schedules. Most of the work affecting operations will take place at night, and the timing also depends on the weather and on the availability of the planned runway configurations. Once finished, the new exit is meant to reduce holding, manoeuvring and taxi times.

The release does not say which airlines, routes or flights were adjusted to fit the reduced capacity. Passengers flying to or from Barcelona between 16 and 26 November should check their flight times with their airline before travelling.