Bilbao Airport (BIO)

Bilbao Airport (BIO), popularly known as "La Paloma" (The Dove) due to the unique architectural design of its terminal, which resembles a bird taking flight, was inaugurated on 19 September 1948. It is the most important airport in the Basque Country and operates a mix of domestic and international flights, mainly within Europe and North Africa.

Official Website: aena.es

Telephone: +34 913 211 000

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport has a single passenger terminal, operating from 4:30 to 0:00.

Annual Traffic (2024): 6.8 million passengers.

Information Points

General information desks are available in the baggage claim area and on the third floor of the terminal. In addition, in the Arrivals Hall there is a tourist office with interactive screens (Tel. +34 944 031 444) where you can get assistance and resolve any queries.

 Location

The airport is located in the municipalities of Lujua and Sondica, 12 km (8 miles) north of Bilbao, the capital of the province of Biscay.

Accommodation near Bilbao airport (BIO)

Several hotels are located near the airport, offering convenience for passengers in transit or with early/late flights. Some provide a free shuttle service. It is recommended to check directly with the hotel regarding the availability of the transfer service and to book in advance.

Nearby Hotels

• Hotel New Bilbao Airport: Offers a free 24-hour airport shuttle, ideal for tight connections at any time of day.
• Holiday Inn Express Bilbao Airport: Includes buffet breakfast in the rate and has meeting rooms, perfect for business travellers.
• Hotel Seminario Aeropuerto Bilbao: Features spacious green areas and a peaceful setting, suitable for resting before or after a flight.
• Hospedium Hotel Sky Blu Loiu: Provides a modern and comfortable alternative, suitable for passengers seeking good service and efficient connections to the airport and surrounding areas.
• Hospedium Hotel Sky Blu Sondika: Similar to its counterpart in Loiu, this hotel offers a pleasant and well-connected stay, ideal for travellers who value comfort and quality services close to the airport.

Parking services at Bilbao airport (BIO)

The airport offers several parking options adapted to different needs, suitable for both short and long stays. All car parks are conveniently located close to the passenger terminal.

Parking Options

• General Car Park P1:

  Located just 100 metres from the north façade of the terminal, this five-level car park is ideal for short or medium stays of up to 4 days. It offers premium spaces on the ground floor for greater convenience and is connected to the terminal via an underground walkway. Electric vehicle charging points are also available here.

• Long-Stay Car Park P2:

  Designed for extended stays, it is located on the Departures level and is connected to the airport’s main building by a covered pedestrian walkway, ensuring easy access for passengers.

• Express Parking:

  The airport has two Express Parking areas, located in front of the Arrivals and Departures zones of the terminal. These areas are intended for very short stays, allowing parking for up to 60 minutes, ideal for quickly dropping off or picking up passengers. The first 10 minutes are free of charge.

• Low-Cost Car Park:

  This option is available for stays of more than 5 days and requires advance booking. It is located approximately 15 minutes from the terminal and is connected to it by an open-air walkway, offering an economical alternative for long trips.

Rates and Booking

For updated rates and to make parking reservations, it is recommended to visit the parking section on the official Aena website.

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Bilbao Airport offers services and facilities for passengers with special needs, reduced mobility, or those requiring additional assistance. It is essential to arrange these services in advance to ensure a comfortable and smooth travel experience.

Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM)

• Requesting Assistance: Passengers who require special assistance, such as the use of wheelchairs or accompaniment, must notify their airline or travel agency at least 48 hours before their flight departure. This allows the airport to organise the necessary staff and resources.
• Meeting Points: The airport provides designated meeting points both inside and outside the terminal, where assistance staff can meet passengers who have requested the service.
• Available Services: Assistance covers everything from arrival at the airport, through security checks and boarding, to arrival at the final destination.

Unaccompanied Minors

• Coordination with the Airline: Children travelling without a responsible adult must be registered under their airline’s “unaccompanied minor” service. This service must be arranged directly with the airline, which will set its own age requirements and fees.
• Escort: Airline or airport staff will accompany the minor from check-in, through security and boarding procedures, until they are handed over to authorised personnel at the destination airport.

More Information

For any further enquiries about assistance services, you may contact Aena’s information service at: +34 913 211 000.