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Spanish Airports Overwhelmed by Homelessness, Health Risks Escalate

Hundreds of displaced individuals shelter in terminals nightly as pest infestations and safety concerns disrupt operations and spark union demands for urgent action.

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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.