Is There More Than One Airport in Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. It is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture.

If you are planning a trip to Madrid, you might be wondering if there is more than one airport in the city. The answer is yes! In fact, Madrid has two main airports that serve both domestic and international flights.

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

The Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is the primary airport in Madrid. It is located about 12 kilometers northeast of the city center and serves as the main hub for Spanish flag carrier Iberia Airlines. The airport has four terminals – T1, T2, T3, and T4 – that are connected by a free shuttle bus service.

Terminals

  • Terminal 1 (T1): This terminal serves domestic flights operated by Iberia Airlines.
  • Terminal 2 (T2): This terminal serves international flights operated by airlines such as Air Europa and EasyJet.
  • Terminal 3 (T3): This terminal serves both domestic and international flights operated by airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.
  • Terminal 4 (T4): This terminal serves both domestic and international flights operated by airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Emirates.

Transportation

The Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is well-connected to the city center via various modes of transportation. The most convenient way to get to the city center is by taking the Metro Line 8 that runs from all four terminals of the airport to Nuevos Ministerios station in central Madrid. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes and costs €4.50.

Other transportation options include taxis, buses, and rental cars. Taxis are readily available at all terminals of the airport, but be prepared to pay around €30-€40 for a ride to the city center.

Buses are also available from all terminals and cost around €5-€6 for a one-way trip to the city center. If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport.

Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport

The Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport (MCV) is a smaller airport located about 8 kilometers southwest of the city center. It is primarily used for general aviation and flight training purposes and does not serve any commercial flights.

While Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport does not have any direct transportation links to the city center, you can take a taxi or bus from the airport to nearby Metro stations or train stations. Alternatively, you can rent a car from one of the car rental companies located at the airport.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – Madrid has two airports that serve different purposes. If you are traveling internationally or domestically on a commercial airline, you will most likely arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport.

However, if you are flying on a private plane or taking flight lessons, you might end up at Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport. Regardless of which airport you arrive at, there are plenty of transportation options available to help you get to your destination in Madrid.