Lanzarote to Get a New Airport

Reform will improve operations and accessibility for users

The video accompanying this article shows the future César Manrique Airport of Lanzarote. As the infographic illustrates, in the not‑too‑distant future—likely before 2031—a large, modern and unobtrusive canopy will cover the two terminals of the airport complex. The transformation is not limited to the exterior. Inside, AENA’s project calls for a series of upgrades to modernize the facility.

“Lanzarote cannot settle for a merely functional airport. Our main gateway must reflect our identity, our landscape, and the quality experience we offer as a destination,” said the president of the Island Council.

Betancort recalled that, since the start of his mandate, he has promoted technical and institutional meetings with AENA to reach consensus on the strategic design of the infrastructure and to ensure that the expansion respects the island’s aesthetic and César Manrique’s legacy.

“This investment of more than €327 million represents a historic opportunity to modernize the infrastructure without abandoning our essence. We will continue to participate actively to fine‑tune the project and guarantee it lives up to Lanzarote’s standards,” he added.

Architectural integration and sustainability

Sonia Corrochano, Director of Airport Planning and Regulatory Control at AENA, explained that the design envisions an architectural integration that respects the island environment, incorporating elements inspired by traditional Canarian architecture and local materials, as well as solutions aimed at maximizing energy efficiency and natural ventilation.

Corrochano noted that all new buildings will be designed to stringent environmental standards and that the new DORA (Airport Operations Regulation) includes more ambitious quality indicators, covering both technological and environmental parameters.

“Our commitment is to raise service quality levels even during construction, strengthening evaluation and compliance systems across the entire airport network,” she said.

Specific features include:

• Ventilation and lighting channels that mimic the “hoyos” of La Geria.
• A new façade equipped with a green brise‑soleil system inspired by traditional Lanzarote balconies.
• Check‑in and restaurant areas finished in wood tones that echo the island’s wicker baskets.

To fund the project, €1.244 billion will be allocated to the Canary Islands, of which €327 million is earmarked for Lanzarote. Within this amount, €228 million will be regulated under budget lines that must be approved by the Council of Ministers by the end of 2026. The bulk of the integrated project’s execution is expected between 2029 and 2030, with the improvements slated for completion by 2031, provided no major obstacles arise.