Access Restrictions Imposed at Madrid Airport to Deter Homeless Shelter Use
Spain’s airport authority AENA has announced new access restrictions at Madrid Barajas Airport, aiming to prevent the growing number of homeless individuals from staying overnight in the terminals. Under the new policy, which is set to take effect in the coming days, access during certain hours will be limited exclusively to passengers with boarding passes, airport staff, and individuals accompanying ticketed travelers. The exact hours of the restriction have not yet been disclosed.
AENA stated that homeless encampments have been forming inside the terminals for months, causing discomfort to passengers. The authority said it has requested assistance from the Madrid local government but has not received sufficient support. AENA emphasized that airports are transit spaces, not living areas, and noted that the lack of action ahead of the busy summer travel season has sparked disputes among government agencies.
📰: Washington Times
