The expansion of the King Abdul Aziz International airport has begun and several contracts will be awarded at the end of this month. The $11.3 billion (Dh41.5) will increase the current 16 million passenger capacity to 80 million in 2025 when all phases are completed. Last year passenger growth at the airport was 6.6% compared to 2007.
The runways are being increased to 4,000 meters in length and 75 meters wide in order to accommodate the newer generation of larger aircraft like the A380. Following the upgrade of the runways, terminal expansion will begin. The first phase is scheduled for completion in 2012 with a new air traffic tower, 46 gates, and an air cargo village capable of handling more than 1.5 million tons of cargo each year.
