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Los Alcázares is on the brink of reclaiming its historic role as a key hub for Spanish hydro aviation. Just a few formalities remain before the town can officially welcome seaplanes back into its skies — and waters — once again.
The municipality will proudly host the SPLASH-IN seaplane festival, reaffirming its ties to a rich aeronautical heritage. According to local officials, all that stands in the way of operational status is a final permit.
“There are very few seaplanes in Spain — only in Mallorca and the Canary Islands, I believe,” said Pedro José Sánchez, Councilor for Economic Development. “Becoming active again would position us as a national benchmark and open new avenues for tourism and economic growth. Our vision includes establishing both a seaplane school and a maintenance centre here in Los Alcázares.”
Sánchez also addressed environmental concerns, often a sticking point in such ventures. “The environmental impact is minimal. The propellers never touch the water, and unlike conventional aircraft, seaplanes don’t require major infrastructure. No runways, no razing of land. In fact, when comparing the footprint of seaplanes to airports, the difference is massive. Around the world, especially in Asia, seaplanes are common for inter-island transport — and that’s something we can develop here too.”
The SPLASH-IN festival will spotlight this potential, bringing together history, aviation displays, and international competition. The event will kick off in Pollença, Mallorca from April 30 to May 2, then move to Los Alcázares, where it will run from May 2 to May 4.
So far, six seaplanes have confirmed their attendance: three from Spain, and one each from Italy, Switzerland, and Germany. “We expect to announce more participants soon,” Sánchez noted during the festival’s recent official presentation.
In addition to private pilots, specialized firefighting seaplanes from the Spanish Air Force will take part, alongside two notable models — the Donisilestar and the Tuaila Note — which will perform thrilling aerial demonstrations.
“SPLASH-IN is more than just a festival — it’s a celebration of our aeronautical legacy,” said Los Alcázares Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera. “Our town was home to Spain’s first seaplane base, and this event connects us with that proud past.”
While the full schedule for SPLASH-IN 2025 is still under wraps, one highlight has already been revealed: the Schneider ‘SIGLO XXI’ Cup. This aerial contest challenges pilots to navigate a course using only manual skills — no GPS, no advanced tech, just traditional tools and pure flying prowess.
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