Panic ensues as roof collapses at Mallorca airport, sparking safety concerns

On June 25, 2025, Mallorca's Palma Airport experienced a frightening incident when a section of its roof collapsed in the arrivals area around 4:30 PM local time. This shocking event occurred as travelers and airport staff were in the vicinity, and fortunately, no one suffered injuries despite the debris falling. The Spanish airport authority, AENA, reported that the collapse was caused by debris striking the glass roof. Following the incident, security and airport personnel quickly cordoned off the affected area and directed passengers to a different part of the airport, ensuring public safety during the emergency response. This roof collapse is not an isolated incident and reflects ongoing concerns regarding the state of the airport's infrastructure. In recent months, there have been numerous complaints related to renovation work at the airport, including reports of dust and unsafe working conditions affecting both employees and passengers. In January, workers expressed frustration over excessive dust entering the terminal, leading to breathing issues and slips. Additionally, major flooding in May had previously forced the closure of the airport's check-in area, highlighting ongoing struggles with the facility's renovation. Renovation efforts at Palma Airport began in 2022 and are expected to be completed by 2026, with an estimated budget of €550 million. However, the series of incidents raise significant concerns about the effectiveness of these renovations and the management practices of AENA. Critics have pointed out a lack of safety measures during construction, indicating that the ongoing work may not adequately prioritize the well-being of passengers and staff. The overall mood among travelers at the airport was evidently one of panic and shock as they witnessed the chaotic aftermath of the roof collapse. As investigations begin to analyze the causes of this latest incident, officials from AENA assure that they are taking the situation seriously. They aim to determine any necessary responsibility and implement potential safety measures that could prevent similar incidents in the future. The airport's operations were reported to have remained uninterrupted during the emergency, but the public is left with lingering worries about the structural integrity of the airport amid these alarming occurrences.