The move follows the introduction of new Entry Exit System (EES) requirements, which have already resulted in significant delays for UK holidaymakers at passport control. Local media reports that Spanish airport operator Aena will adapt facilities at four key airports popular with British tourists.

The changes will apply at airports in Ibiza, Menorca, Malaga and Palma. Each will introduce a single access point to non-Schengen boarding zones reserved for UK and other non-EU passengers.

Officials have expressed concern that the new biometric checks required under EES could lead to queues of up to four hours during peak travel periods, particularly in the height of the summer season.

The measures form part of a wider investment programme by Aena scheduled for 2027 to 2031. The operator said the airports will redesign control areas to improve passenger flow and allocate 29 per cent more space to ensure smoother processing and better service quality.

Malaga Airport is in line for €1.5 billion in funding, which could see the terminal doubled in size and annual capacity increased to 36 million passengers. Palma Airport, also known as Son Sant Joan, could receive €621.6 million for upgrades - including improvements to platforms, runways, taxiways and boarding bridges.

Ibiza Airport is set to benefit from €229.7 million in investment, while Menorca will receive €170.7 million. Both projects include adaptations to border control areas to improve efficiency under the new regulations.

To finance the upgrades, Aena has proposed an average annual increase in fees for airlines. The plan has not been welcomed by some carriers, with Ryanair reportedly planning to cut more than a million seats on certain Spanish routes, with some services reduced or cancelled entirely.