Underground station proposed for Tenerife South Airport train stop

The Tenerife Cabildo has announced plans to incorporate railway infrastructure into the expansion projects of both of the island’s airports, with a unique underground station proposed for the train stop at Tenerife South Airport.

This was revealed by Rosa Dávila, President of the Cabildo, following a meeting with representatives from AENA, Spain’s national airport operator.

AENA is actively considering integrating Tenerife’s railway projects within its airport expansion strategy. The plan involves creating transport hubs at key locations, improving connections between buses, taxis, trams, and trains to enhance travel efficiency and reduce private vehicle usage.

A Strategic Partnership with AENA

Rosa Dávila emphasised that AENA is a "strategic ally" in ensuring that the airport expansion projects align with the island’s broader transport network. The proposed southern train link, which will feature a subterranean station at Tenerife South Airport, forms part of a larger initiative to modernise Tenerife’s transport infrastructure.

Next Wednesday, 12th February, Dávila and representatives of the Canary Islands Government will meet with Spain’s Secretary of State for Transport, José Antonio Santano, to push for the inclusion of both Tenerife and Gran Canaria’s railway projects in the National Rail Network.

Key Transport Projects on the Horizon

Among the pivotal projects under development are:

• The Southern Train Line: A planned rail connection from San Isidro to Costa Adeje, with the airport stop located within a purpose-built underground ‘cavern’.
• Tram Extension: The Tenerife tram system is set to extend from La Laguna to Tenerife North Airport.
• Road Expansions: A third lane will be added to the TF-5 motorway between Guamasa and the Tenerife North Airport junction, with an estimated investment of €50 million.

Historic Investment in Tenerife’s Airports

During the meeting with AENA officials, it was revealed that Tenerife will receive 80% of the airport operator’s budget for the Canary Islands. Dávila described this as an “unprecedented investment” that will not only cater to the growing number of passengers but also improve overall mobility and ease road congestion.

The technical project for Tenerife South Airport’s new terminal is expected to be completed by mid-2025, enabling administrative and environmental processing to begin. The contract is scheduled for tendering in 2027 under the third edition of the Airport Regulation Document (DORA III). Meanwhile, the project for Tenerife North Airport is facing a six-month delay.

Comprehensive Mobility Solutions

Beyond the railway projects, Tenerife’s government is implementing several measures to enhance mobility across the island. These include:

• Upgrades to TF-1 Connections: A reorganisation of access routes and parking facilities at Tenerife South Airport, forming part of a €300 million redevelopment under DORA III (2027-2031).
• Public Transport Expansion: The island’s bus operator, TITSA, is exploring increased frequencies and additional routes to improve airport connectivity.
• Transport Hubs: New interchanges will facilitate seamless transfers between buses, trains, and trams, further promoting public transport use.

By integrating these transport solutions into the airport expansions, Tenerife aims to reduce road congestion, enhance connectivity, and improve travel efficiency for both residents and visitors.