Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport

Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC): The Premier Gateway to Spain’s Costa Blanca

Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) stands as a vital hub for air travel in Spain, solidifying its position as the fifth busiest airport in the country. As the primary air gateway to the popular Costa Blanca region, including Alicante city, Benidorm, and Murcia, the airport has seen unprecedented growth, driven largely by international leisure tourism. Managed by Aena, ALC is defined by its modern infrastructure, efficient services, and continuous commitment to handling soaring passenger numbers.

Record-Breaking Traffic & Infrastructure Expansion

Alicante Airport has established new benchmarks for growth, necessitating significant investment in its facilities.

• Location: L’Altet, Elche, situated approximately 9 km southwest of Alicante city center.
• IATA/ICAO Codes: ALC / LEAL.
• Coordinates: 38° 16′ 59” N, 0° 34′ 0” W.
• Passenger Growth: The airport closed 2024 with a record-breaking 18.4 million passengers, marking an impressive 16.8% increase over the previous year. This trajectory is expected to continue, with current projections suggesting ALC is on track to serve nearly 20 million annual passengers in 2025. This makes it one of the fastest-growing major airports in Europe.
• Major Expansion Project: To address this surging demand and enhance the passenger experience, Aena has initiated a €19.8 million terminal expansion project. The plans include:
  • Demolishing the old terminal building to create an enlarged and more comfortable boarding area.
  • Adding new gates specifically dedicated to non-Schengen international flights.
  • Upgrading security systems and significantly increasing commercial space for new shops and dining options.
• Future Development: Regional stakeholders are advocating for the construction of a second runway and the establishment of a dedicated rail link to further sustain long-term growth and improve regional connectivity for the entire Costa Blanca.

Connectivity: Airlines and Major Route Network

ALC is a crucial focus city for low-cost carriers, offering direct flights to over 100 destinations across Europe and North Africa.

• Main Airlines: The route network is predominantly served by key low-cost European carriers, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and Vueling, alongside major flag carriers.
• Key Markets: The airport’s highest traffic volumes are with the United Kingdom (the largest market), followed by the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Poland.
• 2025/2026 Route Highlights & New Connections:
  • Base Expansion: Ryanair is significantly expanding its presence, basing 16 aircraft in Alicante for the winter 2025/2026 season.
  • Year-Round Service: Eight routes previously offered only in summer will now operate year-round, including links to Aberdeen and Cardiff (UK), Linz and Salzburg (Austria), and various Polish and Swedish destinations.
  • New Destinations: Recent and upcoming route launches include:
    • Naples, Italy: Introduced by EasyJet (began Oct 2024).
    • Chisinau, Moldova: Direct service launched by SkyUp and FlyOne.
    • Year-round service to Belgrade, Serbia by Wizz Air.
    • Increased flight frequencies to destinations like Belfast, Brussels–Charleroi, and Düsseldorf–Weeze.
• Travel Requirements: As Spain is a member of the Schengen Area, travellers should ensure they meet the appropriate Schengen visa requirements, if applicable to their nationality.

World-Class Terminal Services and Amenities

The airport operates efficiently with a single, modern Passenger Terminal Building (PTB), designed to handle high passenger throughput while maximizing comfort.

• Terminal Structure: The airport uses a single terminal, which centralizes all services, from check-in to arrivals.
• Comfort and Connectivity:
  • VIP Lounge: A dedicated VIP lounge is available near the check-in area for premium and qualifying travellers.
  • Wi-Fi: Free and unlimited Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the entire terminal.
• Shopping & Dining: Passengers can choose from a wide selection of commercial offerings, including extensive duty-free stores for non-EU travel, and a diverse range of restaurants. Options span international brands (e.g., Burger King, Subway) and authentic local Spanish cuisine (e.g., Ars Rodilla).
• Other Facilities: The terminal features facilities for disabled access, a pharmacy, a bookstore, and a unique small sea-life aquarium designed to entertain younger children.
• Lost Property: For lost items, the contact number is +34 913 211 000.
• Currency: All transactions within the airport are conducted in EUR (€).

Getting To and From ALC: Transportation & Parking

Alicante Airport offers multiple efficient transportation options connecting passengers to the city and the wider Costa Blanca region.

• Car Rental: Major international rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, operate desks in the arrivals area. Online reservation is strongly advised, particularly during the peak summer months.
• Parking Options: A variety of secure parking facilities are available, tailored for different needs:
  • General Parking (P1)
  • Long Stay Parking
  • First Class Parking
  • Express Parking (for short drop-offs/pick-ups)
  • Numerous off-site parking facilities also offer competitive long-term alternatives.
• Nearby Hotels: Accommodation close to the airport includes Hotel Areca and Ibis Budget Alicante.

Airport Contact and Essential Travel Advice

To ensure a smooth journey through Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, use the following contact details and heed the travel advisory.

• Official Website: www.aena.es
• Address: Aeropuerto Internacional de Alicante, 03071 Alicante, SPAIN
• Telephone: +34 902 404 704
• Advisory: Due to the airport’s record-breaking passenger volume, especially during the extended high season, passengers are strongly recommended to arrive at the airport earlier than usual and ensure early booking for flights, particularly on major international routes.