Palma de Mallorca has solidified its position as the Spanish airport with the most private jet traffic, according to a recent Greenpeace report. In 2023, Son Sant Joan airport recorded 7,502 arrivals of such flights, placing it not only as the leader in Spain but also among the top three European destinations, alongside Nice (France) and Geneva (Switzerland). This figure highlights Mallorca’s growing appeal for luxury tourism and underscores the island’s position as a benchmark in this segment.

private jet flights airports Spain

Source: Greenpeace.

Of the 27,122 private jet flights that landed at Spanish airports in 2023, Palma de Mallorca accounted for a notable 27.6% of the total, becoming the airport with the highest number of such operations nationwide. Ibiza followed with 6,504 flights (24% of the total) and Málaga with 6,314 flights. These three Spanish airports are also among the top five with the most private jet traffic in Europe, consolidating Spain as the second most popular vacation destination for this type of travel, only surpassed by France.

Luxury tourism with high environmental impact

The report highlights that most private jet flights to Palma de Mallorca and other Mediterranean destinations are for leisure purposes, especially during the summer months. In fact, in July and August 2023, private jet arrivals to Mallorca increased by 250% compared to the winter months, emphasizing the seasonal and recreational nature of these trips.

While these flights represent a small fraction of global air traffic, they generate a disproportionately large environmental impact. According to Greenpeace, a private jet emits 10 times more CO2 per passenger-kilometer than a typical commercial flight. In the case of Palma de Mallorca, 49% of the CO2 emissions from these jets are concentrated in the summer months, underscoring the unsustainability of this luxury tourism model.

Balearics: among the top destinations for private jets in Spain

In addition to Palma, other airports in the Balearic Islands also feature in the national private jet ranking. Ibiza ranked second in Spain and fourth in Europe, with 6,504 private jet arrivals in 2023, representing 24% of Spain’s jet operations. Menorca also stands out, albeit to a lesser extent, with 843 private jet flights, placing it 28th in Europe.

Inter-island connections have also played a significant role in the increase of such flights. The short-distance route between Palma and Ibiza recorded a total of 692 flights in 2023, highlighting the frequency with which private jets are used even for journeys that could be covered by more sustainable means of transportation.

private jets in Mallorca flights

Greenpeace calls for a ban on private jets

In response to the environmental impact of these flights, Greenpeace has launched a campaign calling for a ban on private jets in Europe. The organization argues that these flights, primarily used by a privileged audience, generate a carbon footprint that disproportionately contributes to the climate crisis. In addition to the ban, Greenpeace proposes taxing kerosene and imposing a wealth tax, directing the revenue to fund public services such as sustainable transport and housing.

Cristina Arjona, head of Greenpeace’s Mobility campaign, said: “It’s bad news that Spanish airports are at the top of this polluting ranking. This luxury not only worsens environmental damage but also deepens inequality. The rich who ride in their jets must take responsibility for the harm to society.”