Hamad International Airport (HIA) is constructing a new cargo terminal as part of the second phase of its expansion plan.

In a statement, HIA said the new cargo terminal will feature a multi-level facility with 85,000 sqm building footprint, across three levels as well as three mezzanine levels providing approximately 323,000 sqm of gross floor area.

Increased cargo capacity

The state-of-the-art terminal is slated to be ready by 2023 and is seen to increase capacity handled at the airport to an estimated 3.2 million tons per year.

 
"The expansion will continue to redefine the airport experience, cementing HIA's reputation as a destination gateway and critical international hub. Our expansion has been designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing terminal, allowing smooth passenger flow and improving the overall passenger experience by minimizing travel distances for connections and providing clarity and intuitive wayfinding. Our ultimate aim at HIA is to become a destination in our own right, not just a gateway," Badr Mohammed Al Meer, chief operating officer at HIA, said.

The expansion plan will also include the construction of a 10,000 sqm indoor tropical garden in a central concourse as well as a 268 sqm water feature. 

60 million passenger capacity beyond 2022

HIA said the expansions will increase the airport's capacity to more than 53 million passengers annually by 2022 and after additional projects are completed after 2022, it will further enhance the airport's capacity to more than 60 million passengers annually. 

"The expansion of Hamad International Airport is a vital part of the future success of the Qatar Airways Group, and of course of the country's preparations to host the 2022 World Cup and beyond. It is also a strong sign that Qatar's economy is robust and acts as a further economic stimulus, providing excellent opportunities for local and international contractors," Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, said

The terminal building will be the first airport in the MENA region to achieve a 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) rating. The terminal will also be a LEED Silver certified building with innovative measures of energy efficiency across the entire building.