Largest US Aircraft Carrier Arrives in Palma – 4,500 Marines on the Island

USS Gerald R. Ford in Palma: A giant ship and a few thousand extra voices

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On the morning of October 3, 2025, the view from Passeig Marítim was unusual: Instead of the usual ferries, a steel colossus dominated the horizon. The USS Gerald R. Ford, currently the largest aircraft carrier in the US fleet, has been in Palma Bay since today and is expected to stay for six days.

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Even the numbers are striking: around 4,500 Marines will be on the island at times. For the harbor promenade, that means more buses, more foot traffic, and — not to forget — a lot of lunch breaks. At the port food trucks have already been positioned, and shuttle buses run, among others, toward Magaluf as well as to several large shopping centers.

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Economic boost – and a bit of everyday life

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Industry circles expect that the crew on the island could bring several million euros into the local economy. Some associations talk about up to ten million euros, spent in restaurants, bars, shops and on organized excursions. Especially municipalities such as Palma and Calvià hope for a noticeable rise in turnover — some business owners cite figures of up to 30 percent more revenue in the coming days.

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I spoke briefly today with María, owner of a small café at Plaça Espanya. 'We receive calls asking if we can open earlier,' she says with a laugh. 'More customers are good, but you can tell immediately: more traffic, more garbage — and deliveries have to be better planned.'

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Programme for the crew and safety

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On the schedule are not only excursions but also planned landings in tourist areas. Shuttle rides, organized trips to sights and shopping outings are prepared. The port authority has announced additional checks; police and port authorities are cooperating to keep operations smooth.

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The aircraft carrier looks like a small city at sea: airplanes, hangars, crew accommodations. For residents, though, this does not automatically mean noise disturbance — much is regulated on board and in the port area. Nevertheless, the presence remains visible, loud and impressive.

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Mixed mood in the neighborhood

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While shop owners and restaurants are optimistic, there are also critical voices: residents complain about additional parking problems and possible impacts on public space. A group of teenagers at the harbor dryly said: 'Cool to look at, but the streets are getting tighter.'

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In the end it will come down to balance: a few extra days of revenue and visitors, but also more logistical work for the city. When the late afternoon sun falls on the ships and the smell of coffee and diesel hangs in the air, you notice: Palma is a port city — and today a little more international than usual.

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Bottom line: A big ship, many people, a noticeable economic impact – and practical challenges for the days the Gerald R. Ford spends in the bay. If you are out and about in the coming days: allow a bit more time, and take a quiet look at the harbor. It's a setting you don't see every day.