Prague Airport plans terminal expansion, new runway

The Czech capital could see a significant increase in travelers in the near future. Prague Airport has revealed some ambitious plans to bolster its capacity by expanding terminal and runway facilities to accommodate a up to 21.2 million passengers per year, the airport's Chairman of the Board of Directors Jiří Pos tells Czech News Agency.

The airport, which reached full capacity in 2019 with 17.8 million travelers, aims to invest in the development of an "Airport City" over the next decade. The concept involves creating convenient social amenities around the airport, including hotels and parking facilities, to enhance the overall passenger experience.

A comprehensive investment plan, jointly presented by Prague Airport and the Czech Ministry of Finance, will be unveiled this fall. The construction of Prague Airport commenced almost exactly 90 years ago, on July 24, 1933.

Pos emphasized that a modernized airport would facilitate the opening of new flight routes and ensure seamless transportation services for eight million inhabitants in the vicinity of Prague Airport. This ambitious project is expected to stimulate investments, foster international trade, generate more job opportunities, and contribute to economic prosperity.

The core of the expansion will be the construction of a new wing in Terminal 2, scheduled to take place between 2026 and 2033. This expansion will see Terminal 2 grow with additional aircraft stands, boarding gates, walkways, and commercial spaces to handle the increased passenger flow.

A more long-term project in the works is the addition of a new parallel runway, planned for construction between 2028 and 2031. This addition is particularly significant as it will enable Prague Airport to eliminate night flights, ultimately reducing noise disturbances for residents of Prague 6.

As the airport looks forward to establishing a train connection to the center of Prague, it envisions building further infrastructure such as hotels and dining facilities within a new Airport City. The area around the airport also offers ample space for the establishment of new research and development centers, technology parks, medical facilities, clinics, congress centers, as well as entertainment, sports, and leisure amenities.

In terms of innovations, Pos highlighted a plan to gradually replace its existing X-ray machines. Terminal 2's central security checkpoint is set to receive new X-ray machines between 2024 and 2026. This upgrade promises to enhance passenger comfort and expedite the security screening process. Notably, passengers will no longer be required to remove electronics from their luggage, and restrictions on carrying liquids will be lifted.

Prague Airport's comprehensive expansion plans hold the potential to significantly increase the amount of air travel in the region. The initiatives will not only accommodate a higher number of passengers but also lead to economic growth and improved travel experiences for millions of people.