Slovenia: Ljubljana Airport readies for new terminal

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is expected to start work on the construction of its new terminal building by the end of the year in order for it to open its doors to the public in time for the 2020 summer season. The Maribor-based Plan B Architects have been commissioned to design the new terminal. The company recently completed the structure’s design (pictured), while a tender call for the facility’s construction is expected soon. Stretching over 10.000 square metres, it will feature a new departures hall with 22 check-in counters, five security lanes, three baggage reclaim carousels, a new baggage sorting area, a large duty free shop, a new premium lounge, as well as new food and beverage facilities.

Initial construction work will involve the demolition of the old administrative building, which is expected to take place during the fourth quarter of the year, while the construction of the new terminal will be carried out mostly during 2019. The existing passenger terminal, which stretches over 13.000 square metres, will also be partially renovated. The two facilities will be joined to form a single functioning unit. The new terminal will significantly boost capacity from 500 to 1.280 passengers per hour.

Ljubljana Airport handled a total of 831.195 travellers during the first half of the year, which is up 15% on 2017. Growth was fuelled by the launch of seven new routes by Adria Airways, as well as improved passenger numbers on almost all other flights, with exception to Vienna, Belgrade and London Gatwick.