Nanaimo Airport’s expansion has increased its terminal size by close to 60 per cent and introduced a more streamlined layout and brighter environment for passengers as demand grows.
The $14.2-million project to build a 14,000-square-foot addition began in April 2018. With the addition, the airport is now more than 37,600 square feet.
The space is designed to reduce congestion.
“We’ve focused on making our guest services even better,” airport president Mike Hooper said. “Walking into the new wing immediately puts your mind at ease. It’s a very comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.”
The expansion features floor-to-ceiling windows. The departure lounge now has seating for more than 300 people, an increase from 140.
An expanded security screening area can deal with 1,000 people per hour, up from the current 100 per hour. Other features include a new baggage drop-off area to speed up check-in, a larger concourse and new departure gates.
The Nanaimo Airport Commission and the federal and provincial governments shared the project’s cost.
Last year, about 490,000 people moved through the airport, the 11th record-breaking year in a row.
Vancouver Island’s Durwest Construction Management was the project manager.
