Overview

• Madrid-Barajas Airport reports 400 rough sleepers nightly, with similar issues emerging in Malaga and Mallorca's Son Sant Joan Airport.
• Pest control measures, including fumigation for bed bugs, ticks, and fleas, have been implemented following staff and passenger complaints of bites.
• Airport operator Aena has introduced security measures such as boarding-pass checks, locked doors, and private guards to manage overnight stays.
• Unions, including CCOO and UGT, warn of unsanitary conditions and operational strain, calling for coordinated solutions from local and regional authorities.
• The crisis highlights Spain’s broader housing affordability issues, with insufficient public housing leaving many without shelter after winter programs ended.