Gran Canaria Las Palmas Airport (LPA/GCLP): Your Essential Gateway to the Canary Islands
Gran Canaria Las Palmas Airport (LPA/GCLP), officially known as Aeropuerto de Gran Canaria, is one of the busiest and most crucial travel hubs in the Canary Islands and consistently ranks among the top five busiest airports in Spain. Strategically located in Gando Bay, Telde, just 18 km (11 miles) south of the island’s capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (at coordinates 27° 55′ 57” N, 15° 23′ 4” W), LPA is the primary entry point for millions of tourists heading to the stunning golden beaches of Maspalomas, the historic districts of Las Palmas, and the unique natural wonders like Roque Nublo.
Managed by Aena, the airport successfully handled over 13 million passengers in 2024, solidifying its role as a key international connection point between Europe, Africa, and the Spanish mainland.
LPA Terminals, Facilities, and World-Class Services
LPA operates with a single, highly efficient terminal complex, originally designed with three zones (A, B, and C) but now functioning seamlessly as one unit to manage its large volume of international (Schengen and non-Schengen) and domestic passengers. The airport operates 24 hours a day, ensuring flexibility for all flight schedules.
- Amenities: Passengers benefit from complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal. The spacious departure and arrivals areas feature extensive duty-free shopping opportunities, a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to all tastes, including local Canarian cuisine and international fast food.
- VIP Lounges: For enhanced comfort, the airport offers the Sala Galdós VIP Lounge (located airside in Zone C), providing travelers with a relaxing environment, refreshments, business facilities, and comfortable seating, regardless of their ticket class (access via various schemes or direct payment).
- Essential Services: The terminal is fully equipped with car rental desks (including major brands like Hertz, Avis, Sixt, and Europcar), ATMs, a pharmacy, and a first-aid station. Full disabled access and services are provided to ensure a comfortable journey for all travelers.
- Lost Property: For inquiries regarding lost items, passengers should contact the dedicated lost property office. The general Aena contact number is +34 913 211 000.
- Currency: The official currency used for all services and goods is the Euro (EUR).
Seamless Transportation and Transfers from LPA
Getting to and from Gran Canaria Airport is efficient and straightforward, thanks to its proximity to the GC-1 highway and reliable public transport links connecting to Las Palmas, Maspalomas, and other key resort areas.
- Bus Services (Global Salcai): The airport’s bus network is a reliable and affordable option.
- Route 60: Offers a direct, frequent, and affordable connection to Las Palmas (Santa Catalina Park and San Telmo Bus Station) in approximately 30 minutes, with a fare typically around €2.35.
- Routes 66 & 91: Connect the airport to the major tourist destinations in the South, including Maspalomas and Puerto Rico.
- Taxi: A taxi ride provides the fastest, most direct transfer. A trip to Las Palmas city center typically takes about 20 minutes and costs between €25 and €30. Fares to the southern resorts are higher, ranging from €45 to €65.
- Car Rental: Booking a rental car is highly recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. On-site car rental services are available from all major international and local companies.
- Parking: The airport offers extensive parking options, including short-term (P1) for quick stops and long-term parking, with competitive rates. A typical daily rate for long-term parking starts from approximately €10. Pre-booking online is advised for better rates and guaranteed space.
Airlines, Routes, and Current Flight Updates (2025/2026)
Gran Canaria Airport is a key hub for both Spanish carriers and numerous European low-cost and charter airlines, connecting the island to over 100 destinations. A valid Schengen visa is required for most international travelers from non-Schengen countries.
- Major Carriers and Operating Bases: The airport serves as an important base for several carriers, including major Spanish airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa, alongside the vital inter-island connection specialist, Binter Canarias. Other significant operators include KLM, TUI, Jet2, EasyJet, and Ryanair.
- Capacity Expansion: In line with its growing popularity, major airlines continue to increase their capacity. Binter Canarias announced a significant 22% capacity increase for 2025/2026, bolstering inter-island travel and mainland routes. Ryanair has also increased its flight frequency, particularly on popular routes to the UK and Germany.
- New Routes (Effective March 2025 Onwards): As part of the expansion, Binter Canarias has launched new direct routes to key Spanish cities, including Valencia (VLC), Córdoba (ODB), Almería (LEI), and Badajoz (BJZ), enhancing domestic connectivity.
- Key Destinations: The most popular international and domestic routes include London (UK), Madrid, Barcelona, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, and Amsterdam. The longest direct route is typically to London, operated by carriers like British Airways, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours.
Essential Contact and Airport Information (LPA)
| Information Type | Details |
| Official Name | Aeropuerto de Gran Canaria |
| IATA Code / ICAO Code | LPA / GCLP |
| Management | Aena (Aeropuertos Españoles y Navegación Aérea) |
| Address | Carretera General del Sur, 35094 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, SPAIN |
| Phone (Aena) | +34 902 404 704 |
| Official Website | www.aena.es |
| Operating Hours | 24 Hours |