Valencia Airport (VLC)
History, Facts and Overview

(Valencia, Spain)

Before Valencia Airport was built, the city was simply using a seaport for 'boat planes'. In 1927 and after much discussion, a site for the airport was chosen within the suburb of Manises. However, it was not until 1933 that the airfield was finally opened and scheduled passengers flights to Madrid began the following year. The 1940s saw a steady flow of passengers and importantly, hard surfacing of the runways.

The next 20 years in the history of Valencia Airport (VLC) was a time when many small improvements were made, such as runway extensions and the addition of lights for approaching traffic. A brand new, eco-friendly terminal for passengers was opened in the early 1980s.


In 2007, a further terminal was built, along with improved parking facilities, a runway extension and general modernisation, prompted by Valencia being chosen as the host city of the 32nd America's Cup sailing regatta.

Valencia Airport is home to two ATMs, which are to be found within the terminal building, plus a bureau de change facility. Six cafés provide a good selection of food and beverages, such as Café Ritazza and Café di Roma, while a total of nine outlets are available for shopping, offering everything from food and gifts to pharmaceutical products. The most popular airport shops include Aldeasa, Atlántica, the Bahia Centre and Las Lilas. Within easy driving distance, the Eurostars Gran Valencia caters well to companies and business visitors, although a meeting room and conference hall are located onsite at the airport.