Military Airshow Grounds Palma Airport on Saturday Between 11:30 and 13:00

Flight operations halted: Two hours for the air force

If you are at Palma Airport on Saturday morning, expect unusual quiet above the terminal—or the opposite: between 11:30 and 13:00 civilian flight operations will be temporarily suspended so the air force can perform its anniversary flights. The event marks the 75th anniversary of the Son Sant Joan military base, and maneuvers by fighter jets, including an F‑18, are expected.

Planning vs. reality

AENA says the restriction has been worked into the flight schedule so massive reassignments shouldn't be necessary. In reality, however, that doesn't mean everything will run smoothly: on Friday, test flights already caused delays—some aircraft remained on the tarmac for over an hour, while others had to circle in holding patterns. One traveler reported spending more than two hours on board until the airspace was reopened. It sounds annoying—and often it is.

Normally in November we record around 25 movements per hour. Weekends are busier: for the time of the show about 60 flights are planned. That means: doors open, doors closed, taxi, brake—and then wait.

Weather decides—and you should be prepared

The organizers are keeping a close eye on the weather. There is an official interface between the base, the emergency number 112 and AEMET. Bad weather can cancel the whole show, which at best is disappointing for spectators and at worst causes chaos for travelers if last-minute changes are required.

My tip if you are traveling this Saturday: check your flight status early in the morning, follow updates from your airline via app or SMS, and plan extra time—especially if you have connecting flights. Buses and taxis to the airport are reliable, but when check-in queues grow, every extra minute counts.

What passengers can expect

Travelers should expect delays, not mass cancellations. AENA is trying to maintain normal operations as much as possible. Still, test flights on Friday showed that military aircraft have priority—and that can take time. A bit of patience and a second coffee in Terminal C can help. Or a walk on the arrivals terrace if the weather cooperates.

And if you're going for the show: arrive early, bring binoculars (or your smartphone), and be prepared for the event to be cancelled due to weather. For everyone else: keep an eye on your airline's information—usually that helps to cope with delays better.