Planned enhancements and an updated terminal at Bucharest's Băneasa Airport

Planned enhancements and an updated terminal at Bucharest's Băneasa Airport

Bucharest's Băneasa-Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (AIBB-AV) is undergoing a significant redevelopment project aimed at increasing its passenger processing capacity for the period 2025–2035. The strategic program focuses on transforming the airport into a modern regional hub that complements Bucharest's main Henri Coandă International Airport.

Increased Passenger Capacity

The airport's planned capacity is expected to rise to around 3 million passengers per year by 2035. This represents a substantial increase from its previous capacity of roughly 700,000 passengers annually before redevelopment.

New Terminal and Infrastructure Upgrades

The redevelopment includes the construction of a modern terminal building, designed to enhance passenger processing efficiency. It will feature state-of-the-art check-in facilities, security screening checkpoints, waiting lounges, and retail areas. The terminal will be designed to handle increased passenger flows smoothly, decreasing wait times and congestion.

The existing runway and taxiways will be upgraded or expanded to accommodate a wider range of aircraft types and increase operational capacity. Additional aircraft parking stands and apron space are planned to support more simultaneous flights.

Improved ground transportation links, including better road access and enhanced public transport connections, will support increased passenger numbers. Plans may include dedicated shuttle services and better parking facilities.

The airport will incorporate advanced IT systems for passenger processing, including biometric identification, automated baggage handling, and real-time information displays.

Infrastructure upgrades will emphasize energy efficiency, noise reduction, and sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.

Strategic Role

The upgrade positions Băneasa Airport primarily as a secondary airport serving low-cost carriers, business aviation, and regional flights. It helps alleviate congestion at Henri Coandă International Airport by relocating short-haul and domestic flights.

The exact number of passengers per peak hour that the expanded airport will be able to handle is not yet specified. However, the airport's passenger processing capacity will be expanded to handle at least 800 passengers per peak hour.

The government has not yet made a decision on whether it will acquire or expropriate nearby properties to support the expansion of AIBB-AV. The budget for the project has also not been specified yet.

The reorganization plan includes the reorganization of the existing terminal and the construction of a new terminal facility to the east of the current one. The reorganization aims to balance flows evenly, targeting 200 passengers per hour for each of the four streams: Schengen and non-Schengen arrivals and departures.

The strategic program does not include any information about potential airlines or routes that will be served by the expanded airport. The timeline for each phase of the project has also not been specified yet.

The government is considering acquiring or expropriating nearby properties, if necessary, to support the expansion. The strategic program for the development and modernization of AIBB-AV extends from 2025-2035.

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