Bengaluru Airport’s T2 Expansion Set to Complete by 2028

BENGALURU- The upcoming expansion of Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) Terminal 2 (T2) is set to kick off early next year, representing a significant improvement in the city’s aviation infrastructure.

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) aims to extend T2 by 278,000 square meters, which will include 40 new apron stands and a 28,000 square meter walkway to connect Terminals 1 and 2. This project is projected to be completed by 2028, increasing the airport’s passenger capacity to over 85 million annually.

Bengaluru Airport T2 Expansion

BIAL has started the proceedings for Phase 2 of the T2 expansion project.

This phase will add 278,000 square meters to the terminal, introduce 40 new apron stands, and construct a 28,000 square meter walkway for direct access between T1 and T2.

Continuing with the “Terminal in a Garden” concept from Phase 1, which became operational in 2023, the new phase aims to enhance passenger experience.

The first phase, covering 255,000 square meters, currently manages over 16 million passengers a year and is approaching the maximum capacity of 25 million.

With T1 exceeding its design limit of 30 million and handling around 70,000 passengers daily, the new expansion is essential for accommodating future travel needs.

Passenger Traffic and Future Demand

In 2024-25, Kempegowda International Airport served 41.88 million passengers, averaging 115,000 daily across both terminals. International traffic, especially during the late night to early morning hours, is experiencing rapid growth.

According to reports, wide-bodied aircraft are anticipated to start arriving by 2027-28, necessitating more gates and apron space for long-haul flights.

Currently, the airport is the busiest in South India and ranks third in the entire nation. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of passenger traffic between 2022-23 and 2024-25 has been around 14%, underscoring the urgent need for expanded infrastructure.

EPC Contract and Project Execution

BIAL has called for expressions of interest concerning an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract.

The chosen contractor will oversee excavation, civil, structural, architectural, MEPF, ICT, landscape, airport systems, apron pavement works, and Operational Readiness and Transfer (ORAT) tasks for the project. Proposals must be submitted by October 15.

Construction is anticipated to commence by late 2024 or early 2025, with Phase 2 set for completion in 2028.

The new structures will be built on the southern side of the airport, bringing them closer to the city, with a dedicated walkway linking T1’s extended arm to Phase 1 of T2 for easy connection.

Long Term Development

BIAL’s Chief Operating Officer, Satyaki Raghunath, has confirmed that ₹17,000 crore will be invested by 2029 to enhance airside, landside, and terminal capabilities.

There are also plans for a third terminal (T3), which could increase overall passenger capacity to 110 million per year.

Additionally, the state is considering a second greenfield airport for Bengaluru, with three potential locations, including two situated along Kanakapura Road.

Moreover, discussions are underway to revive HAL Airport (BLR-H) for domestic flights. These initiatives are separate from the ongoing expansion of Kempegowda Airport.