Aena to Restrict Airport Access Amid Humanitarian Concerns at Madrid-Barajas
Aena, the operator of Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, has announced plans to limit terminal access for passengers and their companions during the nocturnal hours of 9 PM to 5 AM, starting Wednesday. This decision arises from concerns over a humanitarian and security crisis at the airport, where many individuals have taken to residing overnight, amid ongoing discussions between the central government, the Community of Madrid, and the city council regarding who should take responsibility for these vulnerable groups.
According to sources from unions, only passengers with boarding passes and their companions, as well as airport workers, will be permitted access to the terminals during these hours. Aena had previously stated its intent to enhance security measures during periods of low flight activity to prevent further deterioration of the situation. As part of these efforts, increased surveillance and access controls will be established.
Union sources indicate that the number of security personnel on duty will rise to 22 during the specified night hours, along with document checks being imposed at terminal entrances—four at Terminal 4 and five at each of the other terminals (T1, T2, and T3). Security guards are tasked with verifying necessary documentation. However, concerns have been raised regarding the legality of delegating such responsibility to private security personnel within a public facility.
The union, Alternativa Sindical Aena-Enaire Asae, has pointed out that despite these new access limitations, homeless individuals are still likely to enter the airport, as there exist several unmonitored doorways across the facility. Specifically, they noted that access door number 8 at Terminal 4 remains a particular issue, allowing entry to anyone with a ticket or those who work at the airport.
Criticism has also emerged regarding the lack of formal communication about these changes to the airlines and airport employees, a requirement that has yet to be fulfilled. Union representatives emphasize that a comprehensive solution to this issue necessitates collaboration among all governmental agencies to provide alternative accommodation options for the homeless individuals, ensuring they are not left to live in such undignified circumstances. 'It is neither humane nor dignified for people to live like this,' union representatives have stressed, pressing for urgent action to address the crisis.
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