Auckland Airport, New Zealand, has completed the expansion of the international terminal’s Pier B, marking a key milestone in the airport’s 30-year masterplan.
The 12,240m² (131,750ft²) extension effectively doubles the capacity of Pier B by providing two additional gate lounges and four air bridges, enabling it to accommodate four A380 aircraft or eight smaller aircraft at the same time. It has also been fitted out with new artwork and sculptures, as well as a new retail store and food and beverage outlet.
André Lovatt, general manager airport development and delivery, Auckland Airport, said, “It’s extremely pleasing to have Gates 17 and 18 fully operational to assist with the growing number of passengers and aircraft using Auckland Airport.
“The Pier B extension is a modern and open space that will leave travelers with a strong final impression of Auckland Airport and New Zealand.
“Late last year, we opened Gate 17 in time for our summer peak, well in advance of the projected timeline for completion, and Gate 18 has been fully operational since February 2018.
“We have also refurbished Gate 15 and 16 with new carpet and lounge seating that incorporate USB and power outlets for passengers and airline staff.”
Pier B was initially built in 2008 with four aircraft stands, two gate lounges (Gates 15 and 16) and two air bridges. Subsequently, the airport added a dedicated bus lounge to help facilitate the transfer of passengers between the international terminal and aircraft parked on remote airfield stands.
Following the introduction of the new gates 17 and 18, bussing of passengers on international flights has dropped from 10% in April 2017 to 3% in April 2018.
“The final stage of the upgrade of the international departure experience is progressing well and will be complete in early 2019,” added Lovatt.
“This includes the international security and processing zones, new passenger lounge and retail hub featuring a new range of luxury brands stores and food and beverage outlets.”
The airport expects to spend around NZ$2bn (US$1.4bn) in development works in the next five years. Auckland Airport has recently launched an airport of the future interactive map showing the major projects underway and how the airport will evolve over the next 30 years. Click here to view more.
