The new link building between terminals T1 (Domestic) and T2 (International) for integrated operations at Biju Patnaik International (BPI) Airport in Bhubaneswar was inaugurated today by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation V.K. Singh via video conferencing, according to an official statement.
The opening of the link building will allow passengers traveling through T-2 (International Terminal) to use the Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB) capability provided in T-1 (Domestic Terminal) for smooth linkage.
According to the announcement, the new link building would offer international travelers with access to Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBB) erected at the domestic terminal, addressing the need highlighted by foreign airlines. The Link Building will also help increase the capacity of the existing International Terminal (T-2) from 285 to 384 passengers during peak hours.
T2 and T1 will be connected by a new 3360 sqm link building. The ground floor (2160 sqm) contains an Arrival hall with two arrival belts and all passenger facilities, including customs. The first level (1200 sqm) of the structure is connected to T1 via an airside corridor and houses 12 Immigration Counters.
The new link building also connects perfectly with the current T-1 design. Some of the primary sustainable elements are an insulated roofing system for thermal insulation and energy efficiency, LED lighting for vivid and environmentally friendly illumination, and glazing that reduces heat transfer to keep the temperature comfortable around the clock.
The glass front of the connecting building features elements inspired by the Konark Sun Temple. Natural and earthy color tones are used in the interiors to highlight the amazing native art of the area.
The construction of the link building, as well as the construction of two rotundas for the installation of PBB at T-1, was completed at a cost of Rs 87.21 crore. The operationalization of link building underscores AAI’s persistent efforts to enhance the country’s current aviation infrastructure to satisfy passenger demand.