Operations at Bahrain International Airport's (BIA) new passenger terminal begins on Thursday (Jan. 28) in line with the directive of Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) announced that all the airport's facilities are ready, and preparations to welcome passengers are complete. The transfer to the new facility marks the dawn of a new era for the Kingdom of Bahrain's aviation sector. Bahrain's Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, who is also chairman of the BAC, noted that the transfer marks a major step for the ministry and BAC under the leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The minister praised the Bahrain crown prince's contributions to the project and thanked him for his guidance, highlighting his contributions toward the kingdom's many outstanding achievements in pursuit of its Economic Vision 2030, and bringing the Airport Modernization Program (AMP) closer to completion. Launched in February 2016, the AMP is the largest investment in Bahrain's aviation sector to date and one of the most important national projects in Bahrain's history. The minister also expressed his satisfaction with the progress made during the first phase of the new terminal's development and the "Team Bahrain" spirit that has characterized everyone involved in this project since its inception. The minister said: "I would like to thank our strategic partners, contractors, all companies working in Bahrain International Airport, and all parties involved for their strong support for this national project. We are very grateful for their assistance and contributions throughout, which were vital to the smooth and successful launch of the airport's new infrastructure. Their contributions helped to ensure the project's on schedule and on budget completion, without disrupting operations at the legacy airport, which has served Bahrain efficiently for decades." BAC Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah said: "This milestone is the culmination of years of careful planning and hard work. It marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the kingdom's rich aviation history and positions BIA as the most modern boutique airport in the region." Delivered by a Bahraini majority airport leadership team with the support of hundreds of young Bahrainis working in the aviation sector, the new terminal reflects the world-class capabilities of our local talent. With a strong focus on innovation, efficiency, and culture, BAC's goal is to ensure that BIA stands out as a best-in-class airport that reflects the Kingdom's distinct character and cements its reputation as a regional financial, cultural, and aviation center." The transfer of operations represents a major shift for Bahrain's aviation sector and comes after the completion of the Operations Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) program, one of Bahrain's most ambitious national projects, which paved the way for a smooth transition to the airport's new passenger terminal. The launch of the new facility will be a major contributor to trade, supporting the growth of tourism and travel in Bahrain. The investment in the airport expansion also reflects the government's commitment to supporting sustainable economic growth by strengthening the kingdom's logistics sector. The AMP is one of the most important development projects in recent memory and extends across a range of economic sectors with a total value of more than $32 billion. The project was completed in four years in accordance with a national vision that keeps pace with the requirements of global travel and aviation. With a focus on safety, luxury, and environmental sustainability, the new airport adheres to international aviation guidelines. It will also help to attract well-known brands that will enhance travelers' shopping experiences. Perhaps the most important challenge was reaching a level where the new terminal could be operational without disruptions to the legacy terminal. This reflects the highest levels of dedication by the team in carrying out its task. The new terminal is four times the size of the old one and designed to deliver a more personal, Bahraini feel. Equipped with the latest technologies in the market and supported by new infrastructure, it will increase the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers per year, delivering a hassle-free airport experience and the highest standards of luxury. — BNA
