Another huge development for Budapest Airport to start soon

Budapest Airport is pressing ahead with a new wave of large-scale infrastructure developments at Liszt Ferenc International Airport, targeting both operational efficiency and safety as passenger numbers continue to rise at record pace.

Huge developments in line for Budapest Airport

According to recently published EU public procurement notices, the airport operator has launched tender procedures for two strategically important projects: the refurbishment of one of the busiest service roads serving ground handling operations, and the construction of a new, centralised aircraft de-icing and anti-icing facility near Terminal 2.

One of the most heavily used routes on the airside is set for a comprehensive overhaul. The planned reconstruction concerns the service road located directly in front of Terminal 2B, which provides immediate access to aircraft handling areas, writes Magyar Építők.

This stretch is a critical artery for ground operations, carrying constant traffic from service vehicles while also intersecting with areas used for ground support equipment, including baggage loaders, fuel trucks, tractors and security equipment.

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Big work with big demands

Given the intense cross-traffic and operational demands, the technical condition of the road surface plays a direct role in flight safety and reliability. As part of the project, a new concrete pavement with basalt aggregate will be laid over an area of roughly 5,400 square metres.

Contractors will also be required to protect existing IT, electrical and water utility networks during construction, while a new drainage and seepage system will be installed to improve long-term durability.

Beyond the service road, preparations are under way for another development of strategic importance to airport operations: a new, central aircraft de-icing and anti-icing zone in the vicinity of Terminal 2. The project envisages the creation of a concrete-surfaced area covering nearly 53,000 square metres, designed to accommodate the simultaneous servicing of multiple aircraft.

The new facility would be directly connected to existing taxiways, service roads and utility networks, significantly improving winter operations and reducing bottlenecks during peak periods.

In addition to pavement works, the development includes the full build-out of energy supply systems, utility infrastructure, high-capacity optical and structured data cabling, as well as a complex water management system.

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Budapest Airport nearing its transformation

Further elements of the project include a social building for staff, a covered but open-sided storage hall, new service roads and parking areas, along with modern apron lighting and obstacle lighting systems. The successful bidder will also be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and preparing the complete construction documentation.

These investments underline Budapest Airport’s continued focus on keeping pace with rapidly growing traffic. In early December, the airport passed a historic milestone, surpassing 19 million passengers for the year even before its conclusion, marking a major achievement in the facility’s 75-year history. As traffic expands, so too does the supporting infrastructure.

Plans are also progressing for an integrated Airport Service Centre near Terminal 2, which would provide office space for ground handling staff, airline employees and various units within the Budapest Airport Group, consolidating operational functions in a single location.

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Terminal 3 on its way too

Meanwhile, preparatory work for the long-planned Terminal 3 is already well under way. Earlier this year, contractors were tasked with extensive earthworks and terrain preparation ahead of the expansion of the airside apron.

This phase alone involves earth embankments across 36,000 square metres and the construction of a 360-metre-long retaining wall. The future apron will serve aircraft handling, passenger boarding and disembarkation, cargo operations, refuelling and parking.

Infrastructure upgrades extend beyond passenger and aircraft facilities. In November 2024, Budapest Airport announced the renewal of its wastewater drainage system. The project includes the construction of 2.5 kilometres of new main sewer lines and the refurbishment of an additional 300 metres of existing pipes.

Once completed, the upgraded network will be capable of handling up to 1,080 cubic metres of wastewater per day, ensuring reliable service for the airport’s growing passenger volumes.