The first stage of Bahrain International Airport (BIA)'s passenger terminal construction has officially launched with the commencement of enabling works on the Airport grounds.
This development comes following the announcement by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications of the awarding of the first Enabling Works Package, valued at BD1,139,000 to Cyprus Building and Road Construction Company (CYBROC) as part of the Airport Modernization Program (AMP).
The purpose of the enabling works is to relocate all existing utilities and facilities away from the footprint of the passenger terminal and make way for construction to start on the Passenger Terminal building at BIA. Enabling works will be achieved through two separate contract packages. The first package was awarded to Cyprus Building and Road Construction Company (CYBROC) and is schedule to be completed by November 2015, with the second package is expected to be awarded in April this year.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed said, "Awarding of the enabling works package and getting the physical work started on the airport grounds marks a significant milestone in the progress of the AMP, taking us a step closer to the realization of this important project.
This project was conceived with a strategic focus in mind - to elevate the facilities, infrastructure and services of Bahrain’s national gateway and boost the Kingdom’s aviation industry and capabilities in line with the national vision and reputation as a leading financial, cultural and aviation center in the Gulf region".
He further commented "Bahrain’s deep-rooted history in aviation sets it apart from other airports in the region and BIA has been a key player in this fast-growing sector since the early 1920s; the AMP is an essential move to strengthen BIA’s competitive advantage and uphold its position as a significant transit and cargo HUB in the Arabian Gulf. With the GCC economies booming and the aviation industry in the region growing at an astounding rate BIA is perfectly situated to reap the benefits; the AMP will be the driving force to BIA’s future success and a stimulus for greater economic activity".
Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Airport Company, said "The start of construction works at BIA are a welcome sight and signify the imminent start of construction on the BIA Passenger Terminal Building. BAC has been committed to operating BIA as a world-class facility and 2014 was a significant year in this respect as we went to great lengths to improve passenger experience, airport facilities, infrastructure and ground operations in line with international standards and strategies. Now, the time is right to embark on the creation of a modern passenger terminal building designed to world class standards.
"Our aim is to provide a boutique setting that offers all the conveniences found in a global airport yet maintains the friendly and efficient service which has been BIA’s unique differentiator and the root of our success", he added.