> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://barna.news/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Barcelona-El Prat Begins New Runway Exit Works - URL: https://barna.news/barcelona-el-prat-begins-new-runway/ - Published: 2026-09-18T13:21:50.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-18T13:21:50.000Z - Description: Construction has started on a new rapid exit taxiway at Barcelona-El Prat Airport to improve ground efficiency and reduce delays. - Author: Brandon Watea - Tags: transport Barcelona-El Prat Airport has begun construction of a new rapid exit taxiway on runway 02/20, the crosswind runway used primarily during night operations to minimise noise over residential areas. The project, announced by airport operator Aena on Friday 18 September 2026, represents a €3.1 million investment and is expected to take 12 and a half months to complete. The new infrastructure will connect runway 02/20 directly to taxiway T4, allowing aircraft to clear the runway more quickly after landing. Currently, planes must travel a significant distance down the runway before exiting, taking around 65 seconds. With the new exit, this time is expected to drop to approximately 54 seconds. **Aena anticipates the improvement will reduce taxiing and waiting times** for airlines and passengers, shorten time spent in aircraft before and after flights, and lower fuel consumption and emissions. The change does not increase the airport’s declared hourly capacity, but aims to make operations more efficient. --- ## Minimal Disruption, Scheduled Night Work Most construction activity will take place at night to limit operational impact. Aena has coordinated the schedule with airlines and slot managers to adjust flight programming during critical phases. The most significant disruption will occur between 16 and 26 November 2026, when both runway 02/20 and runway 06L-24R will be closed simultaneously. During this 11-day period, the airport will operate on a single runway, resulting in the loss of 1,441 flight slots, about 15% of those scheduled. Airlines were informed of these dates months in advance. Outside this window, from 21 September through mid-December, occasional night closures and taxiway restrictions will occur, subject to weather and operational needs. > The new exit will allow aircraft to leave the runway at higher speeds and reach taxiways sooner, improving punctuality and reducing ground congestion. ## Part of Broader Airfield Modernisation This project is one of several initiatives under way as part of Aena’s airfield modernisation at Barcelona-El Prat. It precedes the larger DORA IV investment plan, which includes the extension of the third runway (06R-24L), currently 21 years old. Work on the sea runway’s pavement will require a closure of around 50 to 60 days. Additional taxiway construction is also planned to increase access points and reduce bottlenecks, particularly during peak departure waves. The new rapid exit will include upgraded drainage, lighting, and electrical supply systems. According to Aena’s published timeline, the project is set for completion around September 2027. --- *Primary sources:* [*Aena*](https://www.aena.es/en/josep-tarradellas-barcelona-el-prat/get-to-know-us/hub-development/frequently-asked-questions.html?ref=barna.news)*. Reported by elperiodico.com, aip.enaire.es, El Periódico Barcelona.* --- ### Related on Barna.News - [Reus Airport to Launch Amsterdam Flights in March](https://barna.news/reus-airport-to-launch-amsterdam-flights-in-march/) - [Three Barcelona TRAM Lines Resume After Glòries Works](https://barna.news/three-barcelona-tram-lines-resume-after/) - [Barcelona Launches 40 Mobility Week Events](https://barna.news/barcelona-launches-40-mobility-week/) - [ERC, Comuns and CUP oppose El Prat expansion plan](https://barna.news/erc-comuns-and-cup-oppose-el-prat/)