5,000 protest Ibiza airport expansion plans

About 5,000 people have protested plans to expand Ibiza Airport, increasing pressure on airport operator Aena not to raise its capacity. On Monday, 21 September, the Island Council of Ibiza met the organisers of the demonstration. Its president, Vicent Marí, said the island rejects any project that would bring more people through the airport.

Marí backed investment to modernise the terminal and improve safety and services. But he said Ibiza does not want an expansion that would add to the pressure on the island.

Growth plans clash with island measures

The council says a rise in airport capacity would run directly against policies designed to curb tourism and human pressure on Ibiza. Marí pointed to vehicle limits, action against illegal tourist accommodation and efforts to tackle unauthorised activity.

He said it made no sense for Ibiza to take difficult decisions to limit and manage flows while another body planned infrastructure aimed at further growth.

Aena urged to show its plans

Marí called on Aena to give clear, transparent information about its projects and to listen to Ibiza's authorities and residents. He also wants Balearic institutions to have a stronger role in decisions affecting airports.

The protest organisers called for a united position on Ibiza against any increase in capacity. They said planned investment should fix the airport's existing shortcomings instead of expanding it.

Topics: Protests · Tourism · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com