Less Stress at the Airport: How Fast Are the Security Checks in Palma Really?

Less Stress at the Airport: How Fast Are the Security Checks in Palma Really?

New figures bring clarity, short queues are becoming normal in Mallorca again

In the early morning on Passeig Mallorca you first hear the buses, then the soft rolling of suitcases — and at Son Sant Joan airport often nothing more than an orderly forward movement through the security checkpoint. That sounds almost surreal when thinking of some of the panic footage from the summer months, as reported in Palma: Why the security checks become a test of patience. However, the current report from operator Aena confirms: the majority of travelers hardly have to wait longer.

The figures published by Aena show that around 98 percent of passengers pass the security checkpoint in Palma in under ten minutes. Many are even faster: about 85 percent are through in less than five minutes. These metrics refer to the indicator the airport regulator (DORA) uses as a quality benchmark, known as TEPP-01. It is not a promise to every single person, but a target that must be met statistically. In Palma this goal appears to be achieved — with direct consequences for operations: the quality system can apply financial incentives if certain values are maintained.

The screening equipment and the changed organization of routes, in operation since November 2024, have contributed to the smoother process according to many travelers. In some areas passengers no longer have to remove liquids or laptops from their hand luggage, which speeds things up. At the same time, you increasingly see staff in high-visibility vests in the terminal who deliberately guide passengers and catch small bottlenecks before they arise.

Why does this matter for Mallorca? Smooth access to the aircraft saves nerves and time — for visitors and for the island's businesses. If tourists are not already stressed upon arrival, this positively affects the quality of their stay: shorter distances to car rental stations, quicker hotel check-in, fewer enquiries at information desks, which ultimately influences bookings, even as capacity issues are discussed in More planes, same airport: Why Palma Airport is experiencing more delays right now.

At the same time, further technology is being developed at the airport. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is now on its way to supplementing the manual passport stamp for non-EU citizens' entries and exits with digital recording. For this purpose the administration has tendered support for the state security and police forces: staff to assist at automated gates or to intervene at kiosk systems when something does not run smoothly. It is important to note: security screening and passport control are different tasks. Aena provides the infrastructure and certain services; border control remains the responsibility of the state authorities.

From everyday life at the airport one simple tip can be derived: anyone who wants to save time should use the available options — online check-in, easily accessible carry-on bags, and, if possible, the express lanes; see Arrive relaxed at the airport: How to start your Mallorca holiday calmly. But even without tricks, the likelihood is high that you will not stand long in a queue. On the way to departure you notice it in small things: less hurry on the stairs, the cafeteria has free seats again, and the announcements on the display boards sound more matter-of-fact than frantic.

Looking ahead: the regulatory period DORA III brings more quality indicators than before, meaning monitoring and measurement will be more granular. This aligns with recent statistics showing passenger trends in More Activity but No Congestion: Slight Passenger Increase at Palma Airport in October. For travelers this can only mean that improvements are documented and made visible. For the island it is an opportunity: those who provide reliable processes win satisfied guests and relieve service staff.

Conclusion: reports of monstrously long queues remain isolated cases; statistically things are running smoothly in Palma at the moment. A bit of order, some technology and a few people directing the flow — that's often enough to make the walk from the terminal to the holiday start more relaxed.