High-Flyer

Bangalore International Airport Ltd shares the highlights of the recently inaugurated terminal at Kempegowda International Airport. The five-year-old international airport in Bengaluru is geared up to achieve its stayed target of handling 17-20 million passengers in traffic by 2017. This is evident with the successful expansion of its new terminal, Terminal 1 (T1). At an approximate project cost of Rs 1,500 crore, the airport was renamed as Kempegowda International Airport on December 14, 2013. The expansion into a new terminal was announced in 2010 to avoid capacity constraints, improve air space efficiency and minimise costs. A novel experience Construction on the expansion of T1 began in August 2011 with mainly the extension of the terminal building in both directions. The main USP of the newly constructed terminal is the ease with which passengers can navigate through the airport. The interiors and exteriors are designed to reflect the rich culture of Karnataka and vibrant colours of the garden city. Existing core strengths such as short walkways, ease and convenience of usage, linear flow and flexible design were taken into account in the design plan. Post expansion, the western side now encompasses airline lounges, etc, while the eastern side houses a relocated and increased immigration area. The domestic security screening has been located in the expanded western section. The international security screening has also been increased and re-aligned in the same direction as the current emigration counters. Additional bus-gate departure seating has been provided on the first level (ground floor) of the terminal. Operational capabilities Apart from a new VIP terminal, a new contact stand has been provisioned to welcome large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. The new Airport Operational Control Center (AOCC) which is high-tech infrastructure  is the nerve-centre of the airport that helps airlines and concessionaires streamline processes to ensure faster turnaround, making operations as well as travel through the airport more efficient and economical for passengers. The AOCC is based on the concept of collaborative decision-making, which puts joint decision making at the centre. It provides a common information platform for all airport stakeholders with technologically advanced processes to enable faster and quicker decisions in real time. The AOCC is equipped with a video wall to enable operators to have a common real-time information projection at a common, visible area. Design inspirations Passenger convenience and state-of-the-art facilities are not the only elements considered while designing the structure. The airport predominantly reflects the city´s ethos, which have been translated into the architectural concept of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. Inspired by a smile, the roof is an aerodynamic marvel that merges the new and existing facilities in one composition. Designed by HOK along with several leading international architects, planners, urban designers, landscape architects and engineering consultants, the terminal sports an enhanced and modern design elevation. The architectural concept is based on the idea of a dramatic swooping and curving roof, under which the building sits. It also forms a dramatic canopy to the main entrance offering passengers and the public a giant covered area that is protected from the weather. In conjunction with the architectural concept, the art programme takes into account the several rich traditions of craft practice and heritage for the creation of an international landmark. The programme combines tradition with modernity by showcasing emblematic Mysore paintings and relief works in Gesso styles an integral part of traditional paintings of Karnataka with most modern materials like glass. The thought was to create a meaningful experience with the airport´s architecture reflecting the spirit of South. That said, Bengaluru is certainly on the path of transformation with robust infrastructure and aviation development unfolding in its lush landscape. Particulars Infrastructure Terminal Area 1.5 million sq ft Check in counters 86 Common Use Self Service (CUSS) 30 Emigration counters (Outbound) 24 Immigration counters (Inbound) 24 Domestic Security pedestals 32 International Security pedestals 16 Aircraft aerobridges 15 Code-C or 7 Code-E and 1 Code-F Baggage reclaim belts 13 Domestic 7 International 6