Thousands protest in Barcelona against airport expansion

Gathering called by over 250 organizations and backed by 130 academics

The head of the demonstration against the expansion of Barcelona airport
The head of the demonstration against the expansion of Barcelona airport / Marc Font
Catalan News

Catalan News | @catalannews | Barcelona

September 21, 2026 10:56 AM

September 21, 2026 10:56 AM

Thousands of people demonstrated in Barcelona on Sunday against the project to expand the city's airport.

The protest was backed by more than 250 organizations and collectives, as well as around 130 academics.

According to the City Police, approximately 5,500 people took part, while the organizers put the figure at over 30,000.

Protest against the airport expansion, Plaça Sant Jaume
Protest against the airport expansion, Plaça Sant Jaume / Marc Font

The march began at noon on Passeig de Gràcia under the slogan "No to the expansion, not now nor ever," and concluded in Plaça de Sant Jaume.

Around ten groups arrived on foot, by bicycle, by metro, and by train from various points across the Catalan capital and the metropolitan area.

The protest takes place the same week that airport management authority’s 2027–2031 investment plan was approved, which includes funding to prepare for the expansion.

The demonstration unfolded with a festive atmosphere.

Speeches offered at the protest against the airport expansion
Speeches offered at the protest against the airport expansion / Marc Font

According to Zeroport, the organizing platform, this Sunday’s demonstration reflects the public's “outright opposition” to the expansion project.

This expansion would “exacerbate other societal problems,” stated Jaume Osete, the group’s spokesperson, at the start of the protest.

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