Introduction
Airports Council International (ACI) has recognized Bilbao Airport’s efforts to offer a quality experience to its passengers and airlines. This award reflects the airport’s continued commitment to innovation, comfort and connectivity, essential factors for its growth.
What we are going to tell you
- International Recognition: The ICA Award
- Improvement Measures Implemented
- Proactivity in Route Acquisition
- Commitment to Sustainability and Community
- An award that boosts the work of FEMADE cab drivers

1. International Recognition: The ICA Award
The prestigious ‘Best Airport in Europe Award’ in the category of airports with 5 to 10 million passengers per year was presented at a gala event held in Cyprus. Cristina Echeverría, director of Bilbao Airport, and Javier Marín, general director of Aena Airports, accepted the award. This recognition highlights the airport’s transformation, surpassing other competitors such as Bristol Airport.
The award highlights how Bilbao Airport has improved in recent years through quality and customer satisfaction strategies, also achieving an all-time passenger record.
The improvement of services and attraction of travelers will result in the activity of airport cab services. A challenge for which only FEMADE is prepared.
Improvement Measures Implemented
Bilbao Airport has followed a two-pronged approach:
ASQ (Airport Service Quality) Program: Since joining in 2013, the airport has continuously measured the quality of its services, comparing itself with other similar airports globally.
Quality plan since 2014: this plan has involved tangible improvements in facilities and services, such as:
A new VIP lounge.
Expansion of the passenger security filter.
Improvements in public address and signage.
Refurbishment of toilets, furniture and commercial areas.
A new express parking lot in Salidas.
These actions have significantly improved the passenger experience, making it more comfortable and efficient.

3. Proactivity in Route Acquisition
Another key aspect of Bilbao Airport’s success has been its proactivity in attracting air routes. Thanks to the coordinated work with the Bilbao Bizkaia Action Group, numerous air connections have been secured, enabling it to close 2018 with more than 5.4 million passengers, an all-time record.
The airport marketing effort has been key to attracting new routes and reinforcing existing ones, improving connectivity and attracting more tourists and business travelers.
The Bilbao Bizkaia Action Group is a public-private alliance to promote and position Bilbao-Bizkaia tourism at a global level.
4. Commitment to Sustainability and the Community
The environmental commitment has also been valued by ACI. Among the measures adopted, the following stand out:
Replacement of the lighting system to reduce energy consumption.
Social integration activities, such as school visits and open days for aeronautical photography enthusiasts.
Support for ambulance flights and other essential services for the community.
In addition, a new technical block will be built in the coming years, which will optimize terminal space and increase the number of gates.

5. An award that promotes the work of FEMADE cab drivers.
The award to Bilbao Airport will bring more passengers, more routes and more opportunities for FEMADE cab drivers. With improved facilities and increased international activity, demand for transfers is expected to increase, reinforcing the cab as an essential service for travelers.
The growth of Bilbao Airport is an opportunity for more careers and higher revenues. The joint effort ensures a promising future for the cab industry!
Conclusion
Bilbao Airport has established itself as a European benchmark in quality and connectivity. This ACI award is just the beginning of future improvements that will continue to benefit both travelers and the local economy.
Book your next flight and enjoy a unique experience at Bilbao Airport! And when you arrive, we will be waiting for you to continue your journey.







