Jazmin Li
Madrid-Barajas Airport, also known as Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), is a large international airport located in Madrid, Spain. It serves as a hub for several major airlines, including Iberia and Air Europa, and offers flights to destinations worldwide. Due to its convenient location and flight options, Madrid Airport is a popular choice for travellers with connecting flights to other European or international destinations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused uncertainty in global travel, with some countries imposing testing and vaccination requirements for entry. Travellers transiting through Madrid Airport should check the latest entry requirements for their specific circumstances, as these may vary depending on their origin and destination.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transit arrangements | For people travelling non-Schengen to non-Schengen with a connection in Madrid |
| Transit through Madrid from the US | Possible without a PCR test |
| Transit through Madrid from Brazil | Requires going through Schengen passport control |
| Transit through Madrid from the US to another EU country | Risky, as US citizens cannot enter the EU unless in the exceptions |
| Transit through Madrid from a non-high-risk country | Allowed, provided the passenger doesn't leave the airport's international transit area |
| COVID-19 testing at the airport | Available for arriving and departing passengers |
| COVID-19 testing requirements | Negative COVID-19 PCR test result valid within 48 hours to enter Abu Dhabi from Dubai |
| Transport to Central Madrid | Metro Line 8 from Terminal 2 and 4, EMT buses from Terminals 1, 2, and 4, or taxi/private vehicle |
| Transport between terminals | Train or AirTrain |
| Transit through Madrid for vaccinated passengers | Allowed |
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What You'll Learn
Do I need a PCR test?
The PCR test requirements for transiting through Madrid airport depend on your port of origin and your final destination. If you are travelling from a non-high-risk country and are in transit via Madrid airport in Spain to another destination, you do not need to leave the airport's international transit area and so do not need a PCR test. However, if your journey originates in a high-risk country, you will need to meet the entry requirements for Spain.
If Madrid is your first port of entry in the Schengen area, you will need to go through immigration and meet the requirements for entry to Spain, which may include a negative PCR test. It is important to note that some countries, such as the United States, require a negative PCR test for all incoming travellers, regardless of their vaccination status.
It is always recommended to check the specific requirements for your journey with the relevant authorities, as well as the airline you are travelling with, as requirements can change frequently. Additionally, some countries may have specific requirements for travellers who are connecting through Madrid, so it is important to verify this information before your trip.
In summary, the need for a PCR test when transiting through Madrid airport depends on your specific travel itinerary and the regulations of the countries involved. It is essential to stay informed about the latest travel restrictions and requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
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Transit from non-Schengen to Schengen
Madrid Airport, or Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, is considered one of the most complicated airports for transit passengers. The airport offers transit between non-Schengen and Schengen flights. If you are transiting from a non-Schengen to a Schengen flight, you will need to go through passport control and may need to pass through the Schengen border. This means that you will enter Spain and will have to meet the requirements for entry, including having the necessary documentation.
If your arrival and departure flights operate at gates C, D, or E in Terminal 2, you must go to the boarding gate indicated on the flight information screens. If your arrival flight operates at these gates and your departure flight operates at gates A or B in Terminal 1, you must go to the boarding gate via the security checkpoint and passport control in Terminal 1, located near gates C34 to C38.
It is important to note that some countries have implemented health screening procedures and COVID-19 testing requirements for incoming passengers. For example, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers COVID-19 tests in the terminal area, and Abu Dhabi requires a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours of arrival from Dubai. Additionally, Germany has strict lockdown measures, including testing and registration requirements for individuals entering from risk areas.
When transiting through Madrid Airport, it is recommended to have hand baggage only, as this can simplify the process by reducing the need to exit the terminal and interact with officials. It is also important to allow enough time to navigate the airport, complete any necessary documentation, and make your way to your next flight.
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COVID-19 testing at the airport
Madrid Airport has a COVID-19 testing centre, where both arriving and departing passengers can get tested. The testing centre is located in the departures hall of Terminal 4. The testing centre is largely used by people departing on same-day flights.
The centre offers both PCR and rapid antigen tests. The PCR test costs 58.60€, while the antigen test costs 28.60€. Results for the antigen test are available in 20 minutes, while the PCR test results are available within 12 hours. The testing centre is open every day from 2:00 to 20:30, except on Sundays when it is open from 7:30 to 20:30.
It is important to note that testing requirements may vary depending on your destination and the regulations in place. Some countries may require a negative COVID-19 test for entry, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for your destination before travelling. Additionally, some countries may have different testing requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
In some cases, travellers may need to get tested within a specific time frame before their departure. For example, Oman requires visitors to get tested within 72-96 hours of travel, depending on their departure location. Therefore, it is crucial to stay informed about the testing requirements for your particular journey.
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Transport from the airport to Madrid city centre
Madrid-Barajas Airport is 18 kilometres away from Madrid city centre. Depending on the mode of transport, the journey from the airport to the city centre takes around 20-25 minutes.
Taxi
The most convenient way to get to the city centre is by taxi. The official airport taxis are white with a red diagonal stripe and the city's emblem on their sides. They are available 24/7 at the arrivals level of each terminal. The fare is charged at a flat rate of €33. However, if you are travelling outside the central ring, the journey will be charged by the taximeter based on the distance travelled.
Private Transfer
Private transfers are also available at the airport and offer a comfortable and luxurious way to get to the city centre.
Train
Two train lines, C1 and C10, leave from Aeropuerto 4, Madrid airport's train station located underground at Terminal 4. They reach Atocha Station, 1.5 kilometres from the city centre, in about 31 minutes. The RENFE commuter trains are comfortable, with adequate luggage storage space, and make limited intermediate stops. The train costs €2.60, making it the cheapest option.
Metro
The pink Line 8 connects Madrid Airport to the city centre via Nuevos Ministerios Station in five stops. From Nuevos Ministerios, you can change to Line 6 or Line 10 to get to the city centre. The total journey will last approximately 45 minutes and cost around €4.50-€5 or €7, including the airport extra fee.
Bus
The airport express bus takes 45 minutes to reach the city centre. Two urban EMT bus lines, 101 and 200, also serve the airport, but their terminus is much further from the city centre, and they make many intermediate stops.
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Checking baggage and obtaining boarding passes
Madrid Airport has four terminals (T1, T2, T3, and T4), one satellite building (T4S), and two docks, as well as an Executive terminal and a cargo terminal. T1, T2, and T3 are located in the same complex, while T4 and T4S are connected by an underground train and shuttle buses. Each terminal has a Departures Hall with information panels indicating the status of scheduled flights, including the flight number and airline, check-in counters for checking in luggage and obtaining boarding passes, and the terminal and boarding gate. Boarding gates are also displayed on monitors and announced over loudspeakers, along with any last-minute changes.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least two to three hours early to check in their luggage and go through security. Check-in counters in Terminal T4 are located on the second floor and are numbered in blocks. Check-in counters 766 and 936 are designated for special baggage. The Iberia Air-Shuttle service Madrid-Barcelona is located on the second floor of Terminal T4, at the back left, with access to the boarding gate through the Fast Track entrance on the right of the security checkpoints.
Passengers can obtain boarding passes at the check-in counters in the Departures Hall. The boarding gate may be indicated on the boarding pass, but passengers should also pay attention to any changes announced through loudspeakers or displayed on information panels. Staff at the information or check-in counters can provide assistance in case of doubts. Passengers should ensure they have all their belongings, including personal documents, boarding passes, identity cards or passports, and hand luggage, before leaving the check-in counter.
Luggage trolleys are available for a fee outside the terminal building, in the Departures Lounge, at Baggage Claim, and in the car parks. Luggage wrapping services are offered by the Excess Baggage Company, with rates starting at €7.00. Luggage storage and lockers are also available at the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are travelling from a non-high-risk country and transiting through Madrid airport to another destination, you do not need to provide a negative PCR test. However, if your final destination requires a negative PCR test, you will need to get tested at Madrid airport.
It depends on your nationality and your final destination. For example, a Philippines passport holder would need a transit visa to travel through Madrid airport en route to Brazil.
Covid-19 tests are available at Madrid airport for both arriving and departing passengers.
The AirTrain connects terminals at Madrid airport. Additionally, passengers can take the train from T4S to T4, which is a dedicated line for transiting passengers.
