On the afternoon of June 24, 2025, a sudden roof collapse at Palma de Mallorca International Airport sent shockwaves through the arrivals hall, narrowly avoiding what could have been a tragic disaster. At approximately 4:30 pm local time, debris and shards of glass crashed down onto the floor near the luggage pick-up area, startling passengers and staff alike. Fortunately, despite the dramatic scene and a loud bang that echoed through the terminal, no serious injuries were reported.
The incident unfolded just as several travelers were using vending machines in the baggage claim area. Witnesses described a cloud of dust rising as part of the roof gave way, prompting emergency alarms to sound and airport personnel to swiftly evacuate and cordon off the affected zone. One English-speaking woman was overheard exclaiming, "Oh my God," capturing the fear and disbelief felt by many in the immediate aftermath.
Spanish airports authority AENA quickly attributed the collapse to debris from ongoing construction work falling onto a glass roof near the entrance to the baggage claim area. This impact caused the protective glass to break and partially brought down the roof structure. An AENA spokesperson assured the public that officials were already analyzing the situation to adopt appropriate measures and determine responsibilities if necessary.
Airport workers on site described the event as a "miracle" given that no one was seriously hurt. However, the conditions following the collapse were far from ideal. One employee lamented to local press, "Neither employees nor passengers could breathe, and many people were slipping because of the dust on the ground." Another added that passengers had to wear masks due to air contamination, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety amid the renovation works.
This collapse is the latest in a series of troubling incidents at Palma Airport, which has been undergoing extensive construction and renovation. Complaints from both workers and travelers have surfaced repeatedly over the past months, particularly concerning safety and the disruption caused by the works. In January 2025, for instance, a falling panel combined with adverse weather conditions allowed dust to infiltrate the terminal, leading to numerous complaints and calls for better safety protocols.
Public frustration with the airport's management has been mounting. Local sports reporter Juan Antonio Bauza took to social media to brand Palma Airport "the worst in Spain," stating, "I imagine someone will have to assume responsibility for this." Such criticism reflects a broader dissatisfaction with how the airport's expansion and maintenance have been handled, especially given the spike in passenger numbers this summer as thousands of British holidaymakers and other tourists flock to the island.
The airport's current issues are compounded by the challenges of managing overtourism. Some locals blame AENA, the state-owned airport operator, for prioritizing increased flight capacity over sustainable management and safety. One vocal critic noted that the airport's dysfunction extends beyond the terminal, affecting drop-off zones, parking, security, and arrivals. The same critic warned that unless local interests take control of the airport, problems like overcrowding and safety lapses will persist.
Security and airport personnel acted promptly to clear the damaged area and redirect arriving passengers, mitigating further risk. Yet, the incident has raised pressing questions about construction oversight and the adequacy of safety measures during renovation. Airport officials are under pressure to provide clear answers and to ensure that such a near miss does not happen again.
Images circulated on social media showed large shards of glass and dust scattered across the floor, stark reminders of the collapse's potential severity. The debris notably landed on vending machines, which bore the brunt of the impact, sparing passengers from more direct harm. Nevertheless, the noise and suddenness of the collapse caused considerable alarm among those present.
As investigations continue, the airport authority faces scrutiny not only for this recent event but also for a pattern of safety concerns reported over the winter and spring months. Workers have repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction with working conditions amid the renovation, describing the environment as "disgraceful" due to dust and poor air quality. Passengers too have expressed unease over the terminal's state during peak travel times.
In light of these developments, the Palma de Mallorca International Airport stands at a crossroads. Balancing the demands of a booming tourist season with the imperative of maintaining a safe, functional infrastructure is no small feat. The unfolding inquiry will be closely watched by travelers, employees, and local residents alike, all eager to see accountability and improvements.
For now, the collapse serves as a stark reminder that even the busiest and most popular travel hubs are vulnerable to unexpected hazards, especially amidst construction. As the island's gateway, Palma Airport's ability to safeguard its visitors and staff is paramount. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how swiftly and effectively the airport can restore confidence and ensure the safety of all who pass through its doors.
