Saudia Airlines to Inaugurate Bengaluru Airport’s Terminal 2 (T2)
Bengaluru Airport Prepares to Welcome First Foreign Carrier
In a significant milestone for Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Saudia Airlines is poised to become the first foreign carrier to land at the airport’s state-of-the-art Terminal 2 (T2) on September 12, 2023. This development marks a significant step in the airport’s expansion plans, which include transforming T2 into an international hub for flights.
Saudia Airlines’ Arrival at T2
Saudia Airlines, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to make its debut at T2 with flight SV866 originating from Jeddah. The aircraft is expected to touch down at T2 at 10:15 am, signaling the start of international operations at the new terminal. Following this historic arrival, Saudia flight SV867 will be the first international departure from T2, departing for Jeddah at 11:50 am.
Delayed but Not Deterred
Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) had initially planned to commence international operations at T2 on August 31, 2023. However, a last-minute decision to postpone the shift to September 12 was made during a final preparedness review. While this delay may have caused some embarrassment for BIAL, it underscores the importance of ensuring a seamless transition for passengers and airlines.
A ‘Terminal in a Garden’
Terminal 2, often referred to as a ‘terminal in a garden,’ was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022, representing a significant investment with a construction cost of approximately Rs 5,000 crore. After starting domestic operations on January 15, 2023, the terminal is now ready to cater to international flights, showcasing its modern infrastructure and passenger-centric design.
Role of T2 in International Operations
T2 is expected to accommodate 30 to 35 daily international departures, serving 27 airlines, including 25 international and two Indian carriers. This expansion will enhance the airport’s capacity to handle international traffic efficiently. Concurrently, Terminal 1 (T1) will be exclusively dedicated to domestic flights, ensuring a streamlined experience for passengers.
Operational Adjustments and Future Plans
While international airlines, including Saudia Airlines, are set to operate from T2, domestic operations for carriers such as AirAsia, Air India, Star Air, and Vistara will continue to function from T2. In addition to facilitating international travel, BIAL has plans to refurbish T1, which commenced operations 15 years ago in May 2008.
Hari Marar, MD and CEO of BIAL, outlined the future plans, stating, “Once international airlines shift to T2, the refurbishment work for T1 will commence. The international portion of T1 will be converted back into a domestic terminal, undergoing a complete transformation to become a fully integrated domestic terminal.”
Saudi Crown Prince’s Visit
Coinciding with Saudia Airlines’ inaugural flight to T2, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman embarked on an official visit to Delhi on September 11, 2023. This visit follows his participation in the G20 Summit in New Delhi over the weekend. The primary purpose of the visit is to evaluate and strengthen bilateral relations and collaboration between Saudi Arabia and India, particularly in sectors such as energy and security. The G20 Summit also saw Saudi Arabia join as a signatory to the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor agreement, reflecting the growing economic ties between the two nations.
The arrival of Saudia Airlines at Bengaluru Airport’s T2 represents a significant moment in the airport’s expansion and modernization efforts. The delay in the international operations’ commencement highlights the commitment to ensuring a smooth transition. As T2 becomes the hub for international travel, it reflects Bengaluru’s growing importance as a key gateway for travelers and underscores the potential for further growth in the Indian aviation sector. The visit of the Saudi Crown Prince further signifies the strengthening of diplomatic and economic ties between Saudi Arabia and India.
