Kansai Airports signs contract for KIX Terminal 1 renovation

Aviation Updates Philippines – Kansai Airport's expansion plans has taken another step with the contract signing with Japan-based Obayashi Corporation.

Image: Illustration of proposed update of KIX Terminal 1 (Credit: Kansai Airports)

The contract covers the renovation of Terminal 1 at Kansai Airport. The upgrades will boost the capacity and improve the overall passenger experience at the airport.

Scheduled to start by the end of May (May 28), Kansai Airports plans to have the main functions ready for use before the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025.

The project is expected to see the completion of several upgrades including the domestic/international areas, immigration, security checkpoint, and international airline lounge around the spring of 2025.

After 2025, the airport will open the north and south extensions of the international commercial area in the terminal's 2nd floor.

The upgrades will allow the airport to boost its annual capacity from 30 million to 44 million passengers. Kansai Airports have stated the airport will increase the food and beverage space for the international departures area, and solve the problem of congestion in the international zone.

In a release from Kansai Airports, Kansai Airports’ Representative Director and CEO, Yoshiyuki Yamaya, and Representative Director and Co-CEO, Benoit Rulleau, commented: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported the conclusion of the agreement for the T1 Renovation. As an international airport that plays a vital role in driving the Kansai region’s economy, we are committed to accommodating future air travel demand. At the same time, we will strive to provide a new and comfortable travel experience for airport guests, transforming the airport as the First Pavilion of the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025.”

Obayashi Corporation’s President and Representative Director, Kenji Hasuwa added: “We will use our best efforts and take every possible measure to ensure quality, safety and health during construction so that KIX can offer a new terminal experience for all passengers and contribute to the success of the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 as the First Pavilion for foreign visitors.”