The first stage of Bahrain International Airport’s (BIA) passenger terminal construction has officially been launched with the commencement of enabling works on the airport grounds.

The new-look airport is set to be four times larger than the existing complex, and will be completed in four years.

Cyprus Building and Road Construction Company (Cybroc) has been awarded the first phase of the enabling works on the project, which will cost BD1.39 million ($3.6 million) and include relocating all existing facilities away from the footprint of the passenger terminal, making way for construction to start on the new passenger terminal building at BIA.

The first phase of the enabling works is scheduled for completion by November, said Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Kamal Ahmed.

“Awarding of the enabling works package (first phase) and getting the physical work started on the airport grounds marks a significant milestone in the progress of the airport modernisation programme (AMP), taking us a step closer to the realisation of this important project,” he said.

“This project was conceived with a strategic focus in mind – to elevate the facilities, infrastructure and services of Bahrain’s national gateway and boost the country’s aviation industry and capabilities in line with the national vision and reputation as a leading financial, cultural and aviation centre in the Gulf region,” he added.

The second phase of the enabling works is due to be awarded this month and is scheduled for completion early next year.

It will comprise the relocation of the existing Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) facilities including the company’s maintenance workshops, vehicle fuelling stations and training facilities.

US-based firm Hill International is the project management consultant on the airport modernisation programme, with Aeroport de Paris Ingerierie the design and supervision consultant.

“The start of construction works at BIA is a welcome sight and signifies the imminent start of construction on the passenger terminal building,” said BIA chief executive Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah.

“Now, the time is right to embark on the creation of a modern passenger terminal building designed to world-class standards.

“Our aim is to provide a boutique setting that offers all the conveniences found in a global airport yet maintains the friendly and efficient service,” said Al Binfalah.

Once completed, the passenger terminal will be 201,467 sq m – four times the size of the existing airport, and will be able to accommodate 14 million passengers a year.

It will feature a 4,600-sq-m departure hall with 108 check-in counters, 24 passport control booths and 28 security lanes.

The Duty Free zone will be expanded to 9,000 sq m and will include 24 jetty-served departure gates. Arrivals will feature 36 passport control booths, five eGates, eight baggage reclaim belts and a 1,000-sq-m Duty Free, as well as a 7,000-capacity car-park.