The airport was originally set up in 1931. At first it was only a small building. The first terminal, now known as Terminal 2, was built in 1952. Air traffic increased. It was designed by Madrid-based architect Antonio Lamela. Because of this the airport was again expanded in 1971. Terminal 1 was made. It was meant for international traffic. In 1997, Terminal 3, then known as "Terminal Norte" opened. It was mainly for the Air Shuttle service between Madrid and Barcelona. Terminal 4 was opened, together with its satellite terminal, in February 2006.