Malaga Airport is gearing up for a record-breaking Easter season, with an impressive 1,200 more flights scheduled compared to the same period last year. Starting today and running through to Monday, 21 April, the airport will handle a total of 5,875 flight operations, making it one of the busiest times ever for Andalucía's primary international gateway.

This year’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) coincides with mid-April — traditionally the start of the high tourist season — which is driving a major boost in air traffic. According to Aena, Spain's state airport operator, this marks a 25% increase in the number of flights over last year’s Easter period, with more than 500 flight movements every single day on the Costa del Sol’s runways.

Easter Travel Surge: What’s Behind the Numbers?

Easter falling later in the month has given both international tourists and local residents an extended opportunity to travel. As a result, demand for flights has surged. Whether it's northern Europeans heading to the sun-drenched beaches of Marbella or Spanish families jetting off to explore new destinations, Malaga Airport is once again proving to be a pivotal hub for spring travel.

Of the 5,875 flights scheduled over the Easter period, 80% are international routes, with 4,717 flights connecting Malaga to destinations across Europe and beyond. This figure alone surpasses the total number of flights — domestic and international combined — handled during Holy Week in 2024.

The airport currently offers flights to 148 destinations worldwide, operated by 53 airlines, reinforcing the Costa del Sol’s importance as a global travel hotspot.

Busiest Days Ahead

Easter Sunday is projected to be the busiest day at Malaga Airport, with 554 flights, including 438 international connections. Good Friday follows closely with 551 scheduled movements, of which 437 are international. Even the quieter days during this period, such as Holy Tuesday, will still see significant traffic, with 514 take-offs and landings — a figure that would have broken records just a year ago.

A Bellwether for the Tourism Industry

The significant spike in flight operations is not just good news for airlines, but a strong indicator of the health of the broader tourism economy in southern Spain. Despite some declines in domestic holiday travel, the enduring appeal of the Costa del Sol among European travelers continues to shine.

This surge underlines growing confidence among airlines and tourists alike, and reflects the return of high-season momentum for destinations like Marbella, Sotogrande, and La Zagaleta.

Real Estate Outlook: High Season, High Interest

With this influx of international visitors, interest in property investment in southern Spain is expected to see a parallel rise. Many travelers use holiday visits as an opportunity to explore real estate in the area — especially in luxury markets like Marbella, Sotogrande, and Zagaleta.

For those considering making the Costa del Sol their home — or second home — this Easter season is an ideal time to explore. With a wide range of premium properties and insider expertise, the team at Luxe Villa is ready to assist.

For more information, property listings, or guidance on buying in southern Spain, visit www.luxe-villa.com or email info@luxe-villa.com.