The opening of Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport) signifies a significant milestone for Karnataka in southern India. Spanning 255,000 square meters, this terminal not only enhances the airport’s passenger capacity by 25 million annually but also stands as a testament to Bengaluru’s rich heritage and future aspirations, positioning BLR Airport as a global aviation hub.
Redefining Airport Experience
Terminal 2 offers passengers a unique airport experience. A novel multimodal transit hub, doubling as a retail and event space in front of the terminal, redefines the airport’s role within the city. From this hub to the gates, the terminal integrates elements of humanism and nature. Interior greenery, exterior gardens, and natural materials create a seamless connection with nature, epitomizing Bengaluru’s moniker as the “garden city.”
Nature-inspired Design
The terminal’s design celebrates Karnataka’s scenic beauty, with lush landscapes welcoming arriving travelers and bidding farewell to departing passengers. Departure gates, separated from the main complex, are linked by an expansive outdoor “forest belt,” adorned with indigenous flora and bamboo-clad pavilions. This oasis offers departing passengers a serene respite amid the airport’s hustle and bustle.
Harmonious Interiors
Terminal 2’s interiors echo the natural aesthetic of the forest belt. Hanging planters and skylights, filtered through bamboo lattice, infuse the spaces with tranquility. Custom furnishings crafted from traditional materials imbue the terminal with warmth and comfort, fostering a welcoming atmosphere uncommon in large public infrastructures.
Sustainable Structural Design
The terminal’s structural system prioritizes sustainability and modularity. Featuring one of the world’s lightest terminal roofs, constructed from locally sourced materials, it embodies structural efficiency and economic viability. Long-span steel moment frames and reinforced concrete structures ensure flexibility and adaptability to accommodate future changes in air travel dynamics.
Multimodal Transit Hub
Adjacent to Terminal 2, the 123,000-square-meter transit hub serves as the airport’s nexus, seamlessly connecting it with Bengaluru’s transportation network. This vibrant space, adorned with gardens and water features, doubles as an outdoor retail and entertainment area, enriching both travelers’ and city residents’ experiences.
Commitment to Sustainability
Terminal 2 sets new benchmarks in sustainability, being pre-certified as a LEED Platinum and IGBC Platinum building. Its design maximizes wellness with extensive outdoor areas, a concept that has gained prominence in the post-COVID era. Incorporating solar shading, intelligent building systems, and rainwater harvesting, the terminal operates entirely on renewable energy, exemplifying its commitment to environmental stewardship.
In conclusion, Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, stands as a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and connectivity, poised to redefine the airport experience and set new standards for the aviation industry.
