Ten trend-setting airport developments
INCHEON TERMINAL 2, SEOUL
Construction on the Gensler-designed terminal is set to be completed in 2017. It represents the third of four phases of development for the airport, with the last 100 million passengers a year (at the moment it handles 44 million a year, with 66 million projected in 2017). The 7 million square foot “H”-shape terminal is intended to be a retail destination in itself, and is aiming to achieve LEED platinum status.
NEW DOHA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The much-delayed NDIA had its latest launch in April scratched due to safety inspection concerns. When it does open, NDIA will have an annual capacity of 50 million passengers across a three-story terminal with 430,000 square feet of retail accommodate the A380 superjumbo, for which there will be six dedicated gates.
KUWAIT INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL 2
Conceptualized by Foster and Partners and scheduled for completion in 2016, Kuwait’s new terminal will handle about 13 million people a year, with the option of expanding to 50 million by 2035. Taking the form of a three-pointed star, its single-roof concept (with tapered pale stone columns reminiscent of sails) is designed to make navigation from check-in to gate as easy as possible.
BEIJING DAXING INTERNATIONAL
As if one state-of-the-art, 75 millioncapacity airport isn’t enough, the Chinese capital is building a second one 28 miles south of Tiananmen Square. It will have an annual capacity of between 130 million and making it the busiest in the world. Construction on the 21-square-mile site (bigger than the island nation of Bermuda) started late this year and is set for completion in 2017. It will have eight commercial runways and a high-speed city-center rail link.
QUEEN ALIA INTERNATIONAL
In March, Amman’s Queen Alia opened a new terminal with a capacity of nine million passengers annually. Its 127 domed rooftops were inspired by Bedouin tents, with columns creating the impression of palm trees. Designed by Foster and Partners, it will have natural ventilation, gardens and courtyards with pools, photovoltaic roof panels and rainwater harvesting.