Kaunas Airport expansion: a modern look and enhanced passenger experience
Thousands of square meters of glass and multilayer panels will soon transform the appearance of Kaunas Airport's passenger terminal. In October, work began on installing facades for both new sections of the terminal. As the terminal expansion project progresses, new annexes will enlarge existing spaces, enabling the airport to handle more flights and provide greater comfort for travelers.
"Kaunas Airport plays a critical role in the long-term strategic development of Lithuanian Airports (LTOU). After the reconstruction, the terminal will be able to serve twice as many passengers – up to 2 million annually. This will lay a solid foundation for future growth, addressing current travel trends and technological advancements. Passengers will immediately notice the improvements, which include faster procedures, more comfortable waiting areas, and additional shopping and dining options," said Arnas Dūmanas, Director of the Development Department at Lithuanian Airports.
More Natural Light for Passengers
As facade installation begins, the architectural features of the new annexes will become apparent. Approximately 2,000 square meters of multilayer panels will be used for the exterior walls, along with 1,600 square meters of glass structures. A key design goal is to ensure ample natural light within the three-story terminal. Architects focused on functional simplicity and light permeability when designing the facades.
In October, roof installation work also commenced. The facade and roofing are expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
Dūmanas highlighted that the possibility of expanding the terminal on both sides was envisioned as early as 2008 when a new passenger terminal was constructed at Kaunas Airport.
As airport operations grew over time, Lithuanian Airports decided to utilize this structural flexibility. The company “Infes,” which won the public procurement tender last year, is carrying out the construction work and maintaining architectural consistency with the existing terminal design.
Expansion to Conclude in 2025
The passenger terminal expansion project is slated for completion in the second half of 2025. The terminal’s total area will increase by approximately 4,400 square meters, enabling the airport to handle up to six passenger aircraft simultaneously. The baggage claim areas, Schengen and non-Schengen arrival zones, and passenger waiting areas will all expand. Additional spaces for dining and shopping will also be introduced.
According to Dūmanas, the new spaces will feature various technological innovations, such as automated passport control, next-generation passenger baggage scanners, and more.
Currently, Kaunas Airport can accommodate passengers from up to four flights per hour in its arrival and departure zones.