The world does not stand still, especially when it comes to travel. Airports continuously need to update their infrastructure as they adapt to a changing world and the evolving needs of travellers.
In 2021, the Airports Council International (ACI) forecasted that $2.4 trillion would be needed by 2040 for expanding and maintaining existing airport infrastructure, as well as developing new greenfield airports. However, due to recent global events, investment in airport infrastructure has shrunk from $800 billion pre-COVID to $331 billion in 2024.
To further cement Bahrain’s reputation as a leading logistics, aviation, tourism and innovation hub in the region, Bahrain launched the National Logistics Services Sector Strategy for 2022 – 2026. This makes Bahrain’s investment towards its award-winning international airport stand out as a beacon of potential recovery, as the island nation continues to be a global destination for logistics, travel and tourism.
Bahrain International Airport (BAH) was a $1.1 billion Airport Modernization Programme project investment as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic programme. BAH now boasts a technologically advanced terminal, welcoming travellers from far and wide, whether for pleasure or business, as well as those attending Routes World 2024.
They will arrive at a busy, and expanding, airport that occupies 210,000 square metres, provides a base for the operations of 39 airlines and sends off 2,164 departures weekly to 71 destinations. Last year, the airport handled 92,396 flights and welcomed 8.7 million travellers. With a $30+ billion pipeline of investment projects focused on logistics and tourism, the plans are to grow that to 14 million visitors annually by 2026.
Investing in technologically-advanced and sustainable air travel
The new passenger terminal includes a state-of-the-art integrated Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure to enhance passenger communication and security. This is part of BAH’s digitalisation journey, which includes airport management systems as well as a fully automated baggage handling system (BHS). BAH works with partner Thales-SITA to build automated technology solutions for passenger security and communications and other airport logistics. Smart technology is also being deployed. For example, biometics are being used to the improve passenger journey through immigration efficiency and security
Several other recently announced projects also showcase how BAH is putting innovation and technology at the heart of its evolution.
- Bahrain’s Global-Sea-to-Air Hub applies cutting-edge technology to eliminate paperwork, creating time-efficient and cost-effective means to move cargo from port to airport. Products will reach customers in half the time and at 40% of the cost thanks to the streamlined clearance procedures.
- Construction of a new Express Cargo Village began in 2022 and is currently in its first phase. As of November 2023, the project was almost 50% complete. This facility, which will consist of warehouses, runway aprons and other infrastructure, will increase BAH’s cargo-carrying capacity to 1.6 million pieces.
- A cutting-edge 77,000-square-metre Fuel Farm complex with a capacity of 30,000 cubic metres and advanced safety features, the Fuel Farm ensures a safe and reliable fuel supply.
- The nation’s flagship carrier Gulf Air is set for a state-of-the-art maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) facility at BAH. The complex will bring to bear new aircraft engineering, automation and sustainability technologies to help ensure the reliability and readiness of its aircraft and those of other operators, while reducing the environmental footprint of the facility and operations. It will also bring the maintenance operation of BAH in line with the highest international standards, such as those administered by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
- Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) provides comprehensive ground handling services at BAH. The 3,000-strong highly-skilled workforce provides premium-quality services and plays a vital role in the efficient operations of the airport..
To ensure BAH’s continuous evolution, the airport also houses its own Innovation Lab, promoting experimentation and acting as a test bed for aviation technologies.
A sustainable future for air travel
As air passenger and cargo volumes continue to increase, sustainability must remain at the forefront of aviation development. That’s why the new passenger terminal was built with sustainability in mind. It is the largest green building in Bahrain and LEED-Gold certified.
BAH has also received a Level 4 ‘Transformation’ certificate from the Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation program, with the goal of becoming carbon-neutral, making it the second airport in the Middle East to reach Level 4, becoming one of just 23 airports globally. These efforts, along with those in energy efficiency, are part of BAH’s commitment to Bahrain’s National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP).
Building a reputation for excellence
Since the investment in its new terminal, BAH has won several awards in recognition of its operations and logistics development. Skytrax named it the World’s Best New Airport in 2022. BAH, and its hospitality suite The Pearl Lounge, have also been awarded a 5-star rating from Skytrax for the last three years.
People are at the heart of this enterprise, both the travellers welcomed at BAH and those that provide the vital services. BAH has also been recognised with the Skytrax award for “Best Airport Staff in the Middle East 2024”. It was the second year in a row BAH staff received this award. In 2023 it was also awarded “World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery”.
On October 6-8, the Kingdom will host Routes World 2024, the global event for airlines, airports and aviation stakeholders. Attendees will arrive at BAH in one of the most advanced airports in the world, where technology is ushering in a new age of comfort, security and sustainability for passengers. We are sure you will enjoy your experience.
