Alicante Airport (ALC)
History, Facts and Overview

(Alicante, Spain)

Alicante Airport came into existence at the end of 1964, when land was purchased and plans were made. Three years later and comprising a 2,700-metre / 8,860-foot runway and large passenger terminal, Alicante Airport opened for business, replacing nearby La Rabassa Airport and offering routes to Spanish cities, such as Barcelona and Madrid.

The airport became an overnight success and the steady stream of holidaymakers began to turn Alicante into a major tourist destination. By the early 1970s, passenger figures had exceeded one million per year and the need for a new terminal was soon met.


During the 1990s, with more passengers and airlines, Alicante Airport was completely refurbished and included new check-in areas, car parks, larger apron area and a fast exit road. Currently, Alicante Airport is building a new passenger terminal, which is due to be completed in 2009.

Passenger facilities at the single-terminal airport include currency exchange machines, ATMs (cash machines) and a post office. In addition, there is a lost property office on the ground floor, a pharmacy and a first-aid service, while various shops offer a great way to pass some time and include Aldeasa, Divers, Gonzalo Comella, Relay and Travel Value. Eating options at Alicante Airport are excellent, with the most popular including the Cafeteria Illy, Cafeteria La Marina, Cafeteria Medas, Natural Break and the English-style Bill Bentley Pub.

The nearby Holiday Inn Alicante (Playa de San Juan) is the nearest option for full conference and business facilities. However, the airport's VIP Lounge in departures offers Internet access for business-class passengers.