Barcelona–El Prat airport will undergo runway improvements from 16th to 26th November 2026, affecting flight operations and local noise patterns in Castelldefels and Gavà Mar, according to Castelldefels City Council.
The work involves building a rapid exit on the cross runway (RWY 02/20) near its junction with the inner parallel runway (RWY 06L/24R), allowing aircraft to clear the runway faster after landing and improving ground efficiency.
During the ten-day full closure of RWY 06L/24R, airport capacity will drop by an estimated 15%, with operations shifting to a single runway. This will eliminate regular overflights over Castelldefels, offering a rare respite from aircraft noise for residents.
However, if weather forces non-preferred flight configurations, planes may land on RWY 06R, closer to the coast, potentially bringing overflights to areas near L’Estany de la Murta in Gavà Mar that usually avoid them.
Early construction phases prompted noise concerns, leading AENA to adjust night work schedules so long-haul intercontinental departures can still use alternative runways without overflying residential zones.
The municipality will continue monitoring impacts through its Municipal Airport Monitoring and Control Office (OMSICA) and push for public health and environmental protections.
Residents can check updated flight information via ENAIRE and AENA’s official project pages.
Sources: Castelldefels.
