After yet another deluge closed the EI-800 airport road, officials are no longer just planning — the Ibiza Airport Road Solution is now under construction. Engineers and local governments have mobilised to protect the vital connection between Ibiza town and its airport. Let’s see what steps are already in motion and what remains.

Why The Road Is A Flood Target

Storm DANA “Alice” cranked up rainfall intensity, pushing more water than the old drainage could handle. That surge overwhelmed the system, flooding the airport approach. The site’s topography channels rain down slopes toward EI-800 — the road bears the full load when extremes hit.

Previous drainage work remained incomplete, leaving critical gaps. Now, with urgency rising, the Ibiza Airport Road Solution must close those gaps.

What’s Already Happening — Works In Progress

Emergency Clearing And Debris Removal

Crews have cleared drains, culverts, and passages that were clogged by debris. This immediate action helps reduce backups during storms. Authorities also removed unpermitted structures encroaching on drainage routes. That frees space and flow paths.

Assessment And Technical Study

Engineers are measuring the current water flows (caudals) along slopes feeding EI-800. This will inform design specs for new conduits and bypass channels. They’ll use those models to determine capacity requirements for pipes, overflow channels, and diversions.

Temporary Bypass Plans

While the main works begin, local teams are evaluating temporary routing or reinforced drainage in vulnerable stretches. These interim fixes aim to reduce the flood risk before full infrastructure completes.

What The Long-Term Works Will Likely Include

• Upgraded drainage conduits: larger, reinforced pipes or tunnels to carry heavy flows.
• Diversion channels: reroute runoff away from the EI-800 to natural torrents or the sea.
• Overflow relief systems: spillways or emergency paths that activate under extreme loads.
• Structural reinforcement: protect embankments and key slopes to prevent collapse or erosion.
• Maintenance integration: sensor systems and regular clearing built into the design so blockage won’t defeat the solution.

Challenges Ahead

Coordination And Funding

Multiple municipalities must match alignment and funding. Delays in approvals or budget shortfalls could slow works.

Engineering For Extremes

Designs must exceed the expected maximum storm flows, not just average floods. The system should withstand future weather intensification.

Execution Timing

Construction in some stretches may require road closures. Balancing minimal disruption with urgent progress is delicate.

What Residents, Travelers, And Drivers Should Know

• Expect ongoing works along EI-800; parts may close temporarily or shorten lanes.
• Stay updated via official outlets for traffic advisories.
• Avoid parking in drainage zones or beside slope edges.
• In heavy rain, use alternate access routes as directed.
• Be patient — the Ibiza Airport Road Solution will bring long-term security once works complete.

Ibiza’s leaders, engineers, and municipal teams are no longer waiting — they are working on a solution to the airport road’s chronic flooding. The Ibiza Airport Road Solution is under active development: clearing, study, bypass planning, and soon full drainage works. While it will take time, these efforts mark a turning point in protecting EI-800 from future storms.