Bengaluru Airport Terminal 2 Expansion Overview
The expansion of Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) Terminal 2 (T2) is scheduled to commence early next year. This development is a significant enhancement to Bengaluru’s aviation infrastructure, spearheaded by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
Expansion Details
- Planned expansion: 278,000 square meters
- Addition of 40 apron stands
- Construction of a 28,000 square meter walkway connecting T1 and T2
- Expected completion: 2028
- New annual passenger capacity: Over 85 million
Design and Capacity
The Phase 2 expansion will continue the “Terminal in a Garden” concept introduced in Phase 1, which became operational in 2023. Initial Phase 1, encompassing 255,000 square meters, handles over 16 million passengers annually and is reaching its maximum capacity of 25 million. With Terminal 1 exceeding its designed capacity of 30 million passengers, handling 70,000 passengers daily, the expansion is crucial.
Passenger Traffic
For the 2024-25 period, Kempegowda International Airport handled 41.88 million passengers, averaging 115,000 daily. There is notable growth in international traffic, particularly from midnight to early morning. As noted by the Deccan Herald, the airport anticipates the arrival of wide-bodied aircraft from 2027-28, necessitating additional gates and apron capacity for long-haul flights.
Future Growth Plans
The airport currently stands as the busiest in South India and the third busiest nationwide, with passenger traffic growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14% between 2022-23 and 2024-25. This reflects the pressing need for expanded infrastructure.
Project Execution
BIAL has solicited expressions of interest for an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract, covering all facets of the expansion project, including excavation, civil works, and operational readiness. Proposals must be submitted by October 15, with construction commencing late 2024 or early 2025. The new facilities will be positioned on the airport’s southern side, with a walkway seamlessly connecting T1’s extended arm to T2 Phase 1.
Long-Term Development
Satyaki Raghunath, BIAL’s Chief Operating Officer, confirmed an investment of ₹17,000 crore by 2029 to further expand airport and terminal capacities, including a potential third terminal (T3) which could boost total capacity to 110 million annually. Additionally, the state explores the possibility of a second greenfield airport near Bengaluru, with potential sites shortlisted and discussions about resuming operations at HAL Airport for domestic flights.
