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Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 will be held in Barcelona, Spain, from Feb. 26-29, 2024. MWC Barcelona is marketed as the largest and most influential event for the connectivity ecosystem and a major high-traffic event for business aviation, particularly Part 91 operators.
Here’s everything you need to know about operating a business jet to Barcelona for MWC Barcelona.
About Mobile World Congress
MWC Barcelona is hosted by GSMA annually in Barcelona and regularly attracts 100,000+ attendees, making it one of the largest tradeshows in the world. It is held at Fira de Barcelona, the city’s tradeshow institution.
Preferred Airport
Barcelona (LEBL) is the primary airport for Barcelona, with Girona (LEGE) as the alternate option if aircraft parking becomes an issue. For General Aviation (GA) operations to Barcelona and MWC, LEBL is the most frequently used airfield and usually the airport of choice. Runways, taxiways, and ramp areas at LEBL are in good condition.
LEBL is a 24-hour airport of entry with no noise restrictions or curfews for Stage 3 and above operations. Peak hours of scheduled commercial activity are typically 0700-1400 local, but this location seldom experiences arrival/departure holds or delays.
Our Barcelona Destination Guide has all the details on operating to Barcelona.
Parking, Slots & PPR
Airport slots are needed for all private non-revenue and charter (non-scheduled commercial) operations into/out of LEBL.
Prior Permission Required (PPR) is not usually necessary for LEBL but could be implemented during MWC. Always confirm this with your 3rd-party provider or ground handler in advance.
Approximately 40 GA parking spots are available at LEBL, and many, if not all, will be full during MWC. In that case, you may need to drop and go at LEBL and reposition your aircraft elsewhere.
Hotels, catering, and local transport
High-quality hotels – including large international chains – are plentiful in the Barcelona area. The average price of a 4-star crew room is 140-150 Euros per night, but this increases during special events like MWC.
It’s not recommended for crews unfamiliar with the area to rent vehicles in Barcelona. Instead, pre-paid (car with driver) transport or vetted taxi services are preferred options. You can get a free quote for ground transportation through Universal-Drivania Chauffeurs.
In-flight caterers are available at LEBL 24 hours and adept at meeting higher-end GA catering requirements. It’s always best to provide at least 24 hours advance notification of catering requirements, especially for special requests.
Conclusion
Attendees to the Mobile World Congress Barcelona should plan in advance to ensure the best parking and third-party options. Barcelona (LEBL) Airport will see heavy congestion during the period of the event. Universal Aviation Spain can help.
