Terminal Extension Plans Revealed by London Stansted Airport

Construction is expected to begin in the summer of next year, pending approval. It will take approximately three years for completion.

London Stansted Airport has proposed a terminal expansion that would involve a three bay extension at the rear of its terminal building. The project will create a larger terminal, with upgraded facilities and additional amenities for passengers.

Stansted's Terminal Extension Proposal

Manchester Airports Group (which owns and operates Stansted) announced on Monday its intention to file a planning request for the extension of the terminal. After a thorough review of various proposals to increase terminal capacity, the plan will create around 5,000 jobs and double the airport’s economic contribution.

Gareth Powell, London Stansted's managing director mentioned:

"Our plan to invest in new facilities is great news for our customers, partners, and the region because it will provide additional terminal capacity and a better passenger experience for everyone traveling through London Stansted Airport. We have used the last few years to conduct a thorough review of the options for the next phase of investment, and it's clear that extending the terminal is the best way of delivering improved service and new capacity."

Work on the extension will begin in summer 2024, and take three years to finish.

Upgrades to technology and passenger comfort

Stansted will be able to integrate the latest technology in its check-in areas and security areas, including state-of the-art equipment for check-ins and scanners of the next generation. The airport has been testing new computer tomography security equipment before a UK rule change regarding liquids is implemented next summer.

The expanded security hall provides space for additional security lanes, which will speed up the security process and accommodate the airport’s expected growth. In addition, the capacity of the baggage system will be increased. The expanded passenger departure lounge will provide more amenities for travelers, including additional shops and restaurants.

Powell added:

"Our proposal will create a much more spacious and relaxing terminal environment providing space where and when it's needed, and giving passengers even more choice when it comes to dining and shopping. It will also allow us to incorporate changes to security regulations, including the introduction of new security scanners, and the very latest check-in technology. All in all, we will be improving the airport experience throughout the entire passenger journey, from check-in on departure to immigration on arrival."

Stansted says that the proposed improvements will benefit all airlines, short-haul as well as long-haul.

Rapid recovery after the pandemic

Stansted was one of the UK's fastest recovering airports in the last 12 months. It served over 26 million passengers. By November 2022 the airport had recovered its capacity pre-COVID with nearly 2 million passengers over the month. It has maintained this good form through 2023.

The company expects to grow more than it did before the pandemic this summer, during its busiest ever summer. Its proposed extension will allow them to grow even further in the future.

Source: simpleflying.com