If you’re traveling through Madrid’s Barajas Airport, you may find yourself needing to transfer between Terminal 4 and Terminal 4S. While the distance between the two terminals isn’t great, there are a few factors that can impact how long it takes to get from one to the other.
Walking Time
The most straightforward way to get from Terminal 4 to Terminal 4S is on foot. The two terminals are connected by a walkway, so there’s no need to take a shuttle or train. However, the walking time can vary depending on where you are in Terminal 4 and where you need to go in Terminal 4S.
If you’re starting at the furthest end of Terminal 4 (Gate M), it can take up to 15 minutes to reach the closest point in Terminal 4S (Gate S). Conversely, if you’re starting at Gate S in Terminal 4S and need to get to Gate M in Terminal 4, it can take up to 20 minutes.
Tip: If you’re short on time or have limited mobility, consider requesting wheelchair assistance or using a luggage cart.
Security Checkpoints
Another factor that can impact your transfer time is security checkpoints. If you’re traveling internationally and have a connecting flight, you’ll need to go through security again before boarding your next flight. This means that even if you’ve already gone through security in Terminal 4, you’ll need to do it again before boarding your next flight in Terminal 4S.
Tip: Be sure to leave enough time for security checks when planning your transfer between terminals.
Luggage Collection and Recheck
If you have checked luggage that needs to be transferred between flights, it will be collected and rechecked at baggage claim in Terminal 4. This means that even if your first flight arrives in Terminal 4S, you’ll need to go to Terminal 4 to collect your luggage and recheck it for your next flight.
The time it takes to collect and recheck your luggage can vary depending on how busy the baggage claim area is and how quickly the airline staff are able to process your bags.
Tip: Consider packing a change of clothes and any essential items in your carry-on bag in case there are delays with your checked luggage.
Summary
Getting from Terminal 4 to Terminal 4S in Madrid’s Barajas Airport can take anywhere from a few minutes to over half an hour depending on various factors. Walking time between the two terminals can take up to 20 minutes depending on where you start and where you need to go.
Security checkpoints can add additional time, as can collecting and rechecking luggage. Be sure to leave enough time for these factors when planning your transfer between terminals.