Roman Genis, head of the press service at Sheremetyevo International Airport near Moscow, Russia, reveals how the facility is expanding ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup
What’s been happening at the airport?
Sheremetyevo International Airport’s major renovation and development project is currently in an active state. Terminal B will be renovated to become the airport’s main hub; we’re building an underground passageway with two tunnels – one for passengers, the other for luggage – to connect different buildings; and there will be a new modular cargo terminal and a third refueling complex. It’s a US$785m investment in total. The government is improving the infrastructure and highways around the airport, and we’re looking at a third runway as well. This will all be ready before the 2018 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament.
Who is handling the construction for you?
The project’s technical customer and coordinator is JSC TPS Real Estate.
And there are other works planned once the World Cup finishes?
Yes, once Terminal B is finished, there will be much to do in the northern terminal complex. Terminal C will be renovated next – a project worth US$80m. It will also be expanded, creating Terminal C-2, but we haven’t calculated the full costs there yet. But our aim is, by 2022, that Sheremetyevo International Airport will have three technologically advanced terminals: B, C-1 and C-2. This will provide an annual passenger flow level at 45 million, and each new terminal will have a multi-story parking complex.
How many passengers will the improved Terminal B facility cater for?
Up to 20 million annually.
What will it feature in terms of technology?
Terminal B will be equipped with the most advanced technology available, bringing safety and security, comfort, and convenience. For example, we have integrated the iBeacon navigation system with the airport app, there are audible touchscreen information panels for the hearing and visually impaired, LCD shopping screens, and automated luggage processing systems.
The new tunnel is a key part of the luggage transportation system, so a passenger can check their baggage at Terminal B, walk to Terminal D via the tunnel, and their luggage will be there waiting for them when they arrive. In terms of security measures, biometric scanners will be used, plus other advanced screening equipment.
What materials will be used in the terminal’s construction?
The exterior and interior will be finished with eco-friendly materials, while glass panels and garret windows make the most of the natural light.
What shops and restaurants will feature?
We will have a wide range of cafés, restaurants, shops, boutiques and duty-free outlets in the customs-controlled and common areas. There will also be a couple of business and VIP lounges – more than 5,000m² in total.
How was wayfinding incorporated into the design?
LCD panels and screens will be used to help passengers navigate inside and outside the terminal.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge?
I think it will be trying to integrate the new Terminal B with the rest of the airport and the surrounding facilities, such as the updated highways and infrastructure, purely from a timing and logistics perspective.
How does the design reflect changes in passenger expectations?
The terminal’s design not only answers the demand of all the modern trends but also employs a wide range of traits delivered from our research and analysis.
It sounds important that these upgrades took place…
The current demand is for high-quality international aviation hubs and Sheremetyevo Airport is the biggest in the Moscow region, providing a quality service and high levels of safety and security, operating with all types of aircraft. We attract more passenger and cargo airline carriers [than other Russian airports] and, of course, guests from all over the world.
For more information on the Sheremetyevo International Airport upgrades, click here.
November 18, 2016