San Javier’s former airport is being transformed into a major aerospace and science innovation hub. Work is already under way to create a dual technology centre focused on the aerospace sector, with that part of the project expected to open next summer.

Alongside it, a new Business Incubation Centre will be established, co-financed and coordinated by the Spanish Space Agency and the European Space Agency. The plans allow for up to four start-ups to be incubated at any one time over three-year periods, meaning as many as 12 new space-sector companies could launch from the site.

Mayor José Miguel Luengo has described the development as “good news for the CAETRA project, for the entire Region of Murcia and for San Javier”, saying it will bring skilled jobs and fresh investment to the area.

The wider site will also host the OM2 project, a centre for the recovery and conservation of species from the Mar Menor, combining scientific research with cultural and tourism elements. In addition, UNVEX 2026, Spain’s largest drone gathering, is due to take place at the airport on 17 and 18 September.