UK holidaymakers flying from Majorca Airport have been warned to plan their journey carefully today as road closures are in place across the island due to the solar eclipse.
The total phase of the eclipse is expected at approximately 8.31pm in Majorca, just before sunset. Thousands of people are set to head to vantage points like beaches and viewing areas to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. Unlike in the UK, Majorca is set to experience a total eclipse of the sun.
Road restrictions and timing
To prevent overcrowding and keep roads clear for emergency services, road restrictions are in place on around 20 routes across the island. The measures will generally be applied between 3pm and 9pm on Wednesday, August 12, although in some areas restrictions will apply outside of this time period.
During the restriction period, vehicle access will be limited or prohibited in restricted areas, except for authorised groups who must prove eligibility with appropriate documentation. Public transport, including taxis and buses, will have unrestricted access, while private cars and motorcycles will face tighter restrictions. Hotel guests, residents and workers may also need to show appropriate documents to enter certain controlled zones.
Impact on airport journeys
In Palma City, the measures are in place from 8am to control congestion to Playa de Palma. Hospital and airport access is guaranteed.
The traffic measures will impact journeys to the airport, particularly when combined with increased congestion on the roads. Travellers are urged to check the time of their transfers and if they are making their own way there, to allow plenty of time.
Expert advice for travellers
Andrea Platania, travel expert at Transfeero, says travellers should avoid assuming the journey to the airport will take its usual length.
She said: “The main warning is not that Palma Airport itself is closing. The concern is getting there through unusually heavy traffic and temporary road restrictions. A transfer that normally takes 30 or 40 minutes could take considerably longer if thousands of people are heading towards viewing areas at the same time. Passengers should not use their last journey to the airport as a reliable guide for today. If your tour operator has moved your collection forward, do not treat the earlier time as optional or assume the coach will wait. Check the message, confirm the pick-up point and be ready before the vehicle arrives.”
The US Embassy in Spain has even advised travellers departing the islands to leave for the airport two to three hours earlier than usual and to plan their routes in advance.
Andrea added: “Two to three hours earlier refers to the journey towards the airport, not necessarily a blanket instruction to join the check-in queue three extra hours ahead of schedule.
“Passengers should first check whether their airline or tour operator has issued a revised pick-up time. Independent travellers should contact their transfer company or accommodation rather than making a hopeful guess based on a navigation app. Temporary restrictions can change as parking areas fill. A route shown as open when you check at lunchtime may be controlled later in the afternoon, so confirm it again before setting off.”
