Inauguration ceremony for Techno International Airport

Today, an inauguration ceremony marked the official opening of Techno International Airport in Phnom Penh.

Designed by Foster + Partners, the new terminal building is said to embody Cambodia’s long-term vision for growth.

It also evokes a strong sense of place, drawing inspiration from one of the oldest civilisations on earth, inspired by its vernacular forms, and responsive to the tropical climate.

All images courtesy of Nigel Young/ Foster + Partners.

Stefan Behling, head of studio, Foster + Partners, said: “Techo International Airport is a celebration of Cambodian culture and light – forming a new gateway to the country.

“It is also one of the most sustainable airports in the region, filled with natural daylight and incredible local greenery, and offering strong visual connections to the outside.

“The terminal holistically transforms the experience of travel for the people of Cambodia and the millions of visitors who will travel through here every year.”

Located 20 kilometres south of the city centre, the terminal building comprises a central head house and two aerofoil shaped piers. The first phase of the project – the head house and northern pier – opened to the public in September this year.

The southern pier is planned to open by 2030. The terminal layout prioritises short walking distances, clear sightlines and simple orientation, allowing passengers to navigate through the building with ease.

Passenger processing, security and immigration, and retail are sheltered by a single overarching roof canopy that stretches from the drop-off to airside.

Around 180 skylights are strategically placed around structural ‘trees,’ to bring natural light deep into the space while ensuring it is distributed evenly.

The project aspires to be one of the greenest airports in the world by seamlessly integrating architectural design and engineering to reduce the project’s carbon footprint significantly.

You can read more about the new airport in the October/November issue of Airport World.