The Airport at a Glance
Palma de Mallorca Airport (IATA code: PMI) is the third-largest airport in Spain and the gateway to the island for most travellers from Germany. Over 33 million passengers are handled here each year, with the bulk arriving during the summer high season. For tips on booking your flights, see our separate guide on booking flights.
The airport is only about 8 kilometres east of Palma and is easy to reach via the Ma-19 motorway. Despite the high passenger numbers, PMI is a manageable airport once you understand its layout.
Terminals and Modules
The airport has one central terminal building with three publicly accessible levels (Level 0, 2, and 4). From the main terminal you reach four boarding modules:
Module A mainly serves domestic flights within Spain.
Module B is used for regional connections.
Module C handles the majority of Schengen flights. Most flights to and from Germany depart and arrive here.
Module D is normally used for further European connections. It is currently closed for roof and interior renovation (expected to reopen around April 2026). Flights that would normally use Module D are handled through Module C in the meantime.
Tip: Check your module in advance
Look at your boarding pass or the departure boards to find out which module your flight leaves from. The modules are reachable on foot, but the walk from A to C can take 10-15 minutes.
The airport is currently undergoing a major modernisation. Around 559 million euros are being invested in the expansion through to 2026. As a passenger you will notice this most in the new security scanners and the improved infrastructure.
Security
Security at Palma Airport has a better reputation than many people expect. In 98 per cent of cases the wait is around 10 minutes. Even in the height of summer, when the airport is at its busiest, things generally move along quickly.
Since November 2024, security has been located on Level 2 of the main terminal. The relocation was part of the modernisation and has noticeably improved the flow.
New CT Scanners: No More Unpacking
The best thing about the new security setup: since November 2024, modern CT scanners are in use. You no longer need to take liquids or electronic devices out of your hand luggage. Laptop, tablet, toiletry bag - everything stays in your bag. That saves both time and frustration.
Checking Wait Times
The airport has installed ten screens on the departure level showing current wait times at the security checkpoints. There are also displays in the walkway connecting the car park to the terminal. That way you can see roughly how long it will take before you even reach the checkpoint.
Typical wait times:
| Period | Wait time |
|---|---|
| Off-season (November to March) | 5-10 minutes |
| High season mornings (6 am-10 am) | 15-25 minutes |
| High season rest of the day | 10-15 minutes |
Even peak-hour mornings in high season are not a drama. Unlike some German airports where you can wait 45 minutes or more, Palma is surprisingly efficient here.
Tip: Breeze through security
Because you do not need to unpack liquids or electronics, all you need to do is place your hand luggage on the belt, remove your jacket and belt, and you are through. The new scanners make the whole thing genuinely pleasant.
Lounges and Making the Most of Your Wait
If you have time after security - and you usually will, because it is so quick - a visit to one of the airport lounges is well worth it. Instead of squeezing into crowded gate areas and paying inflated prices for sandwiches, you can actually enjoy the wait.
Sala VIP Mediterráneo
The Sala VIP Mediterráneo is located in the boarding area of Module C on Level 0. You will find:
- Comfortable seating and a calm atmosphere
- Free drinks (soft drinks, juices, coffee, water)
- Snacks and light meals
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power sockets and USB charging stations
- Daily newspapers and magazines
Particularly if you are travelling with children or just need some peace after a long morning, the lounge is a real break from the hustle and bustle of the terminal.
Sala VIP Formentor
The second lounge is located near Gate D84 in Module D. Since Module D is currently being renovated, this lounge may be temporarily closed. Check the current status before your flight.
Lounge Access
There are several ways to get into the lounge:
Priority Pass: With a Priority Pass membership you have access to both lounges. The pass works regardless of airline or booking class.
Walk-in access: You can also pay at the door without a membership. Prices range from around 30 to 40 euros per person depending on the lounge.
Credit card with lounge access: The most convenient option. Certain credit cards include a free Priority Pass membership, which means you pay nothing extra for lounge access.
Why a Lounge Credit Card Is Worth It
If you fly through Palma regularly - whether for visits to Germany, business trips, or holidays - a credit card with lounge access pays for itself quickly. Instead of paying 30-40 euros at the door each time, you get automatic access.
The American Express Platinum Card is particularly interesting here: you receive a free Priority Pass membership valid at more than 1,300 airports worldwide, including Palma. On top of that there is currently a welcome bonus of 85,000 Membership Rewards points, which you can redeem for flights, hotels, or upgrades.
Alongside Priority Pass, the Amex Platinum also gives you access to Lufthansa lounges at German airports, even with an economy ticket. So if you regularly fly through Frankfurt, Munich, or Berlin, you benefit from lounge access in both directions.
Tip: Enjoy your wait in the lounge
Arrive a little early and use the time in the lounge. A coffee, some snacks, catching up on emails in peace - that is far nicer than sitting in a hectic gate area. Especially with children, the quieter atmosphere is invaluable.
Getting to the Airport
Bus
The cheapest option. Line 1 of public transport runs between Palma city centre and the airport. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and a ticket costs 5 euros. You can buy tickets directly from the driver or at machines inside the airport.
Line A2 serves the Playa de Palma and El Arenal area with a journey time of around 25 minutes, also for 5 euros.
Bus stops are on both the arrivals level (opposite the car park) and the departures level (at check-in).
Taxi
Taxis wait directly in front of the arrivals area. The journey into Palma city centre takes 15-20 minutes and costs between 18 and 25 euros, depending on time of day, traffic, and amount of luggage. Surcharges apply at night and on public holidays.
Rental Car
All major car hire companies have desks at the airport, either directly in the terminal or in the adjacent car park. Many now offer express desks or self-service terminals that speed up collection.
Important: Book your rental car early
In high season (June to September) affordable rental cars sell out fast. Book 4-6 weeks in advance to get good prices.
Transfer Services
You can also travel to the mainland by ferry. For destinations further afield on the island, private transfer services are available. You book these in advance online and are picked up at the airport. Prices vary by destination but are often cheaper than a taxi for groups or families.
Parking at the Airport
If you drive your own car to the airport, you have several options:
Directly at the terminal costs 15-20 euros per day. Convenient, but expensive for multi-day stays.
Long-stay car parks (official AENA car parks or private operators) cost around 6-10 euros per day. A free shuttle bus takes you to the terminal in about 5 minutes.
Kiss and Fly zone: For quick drop-offs or pick-ups there is a short-stay zone directly in front of the terminal. The first 15 minutes are free - ideal if someone is just dropping you off.
| Parking option | Price per day | Distance to terminal |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal car park | 15-20 EUR | Direct |
| Long-stay car park (AENA) | 8-10 EUR | 5 min shuttle |
| Private operators | 6-8 EUR | 5-10 min shuttle |
A detailed comparison of all parking providers with current prices is in our guide Parking at Palma Airport - Providers Compared.
Tip: Book online in advance
On the AENA website you can reserve a parking space in advance and save up to 30% compared to the on-the-day price.
Practical Tips
Check-in: Most airlines offer online check-in from 24-48 hours before departure. Use it, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only. That way you can go straight to security.
Food and drink: Inside the security area there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Prices are typically airport-level, so a bit higher than in the city. A coffee costs around 3-4 euros, a sandwich 6-8 euros. Another reason to use the lounge if you have access.
Shopping: Duty-free shops are located after security. Since Mallorca is part of the EU, there is no classic duty-free benefit on flights to Germany. The shops occasionally have decent deals on perfume and alcohol.
Charging points: Charging stations for phones and laptops are spread throughout the airport. In the lounges they are right at the seats.
Family services: There are changing rooms and play areas for children. Families with young children can use the priority lane at security.
Summary
- Security: Fast and straightforward, even in high season rarely more than 15-20 minutes. New scanners mean no unpacking.
- Lounges: Treat yourself to the Sala VIP Mediterráneo for your wait. With Priority Pass or the Amex Platinum card, access is free.
- Getting there: Bus for 5 euros, taxi for 18-25 euros, or rental car - depending on what suits you.
- Parking: Long-stay car parks from 6 euros/day; booking online saves money.
- Modules: Check your boarding module in advance so you do not end up at the wrong end of the terminal.
Palma Airport is better than its reputation. With a little preparation and the right tips, your airport experience becomes a relaxed start or finish to your trip.