Bhutan has unveiled details of its new upcoming air hub which is expected to open in 2029.
The new Gelephu International Airport is designed in collaboration with NACO.
The airport will have a natural look with the diagrid structure crafted from sustainably sourced timber and adorned with painted wood carvings by local artists.
Bjarke Ingels, Founder & Creative Director of BIG, said “For Gelephu International Airport, we have tried to embody the nature and culture of the country and the Mindfulness City.”
Tropical trees provide shade for travellers, and the forest courtyard lines the main functions of immigration, security, and luggage.
The airport architecture is composed of modular mass timber frames providing flexibility and expandability.
The arrival plaza is divided into four zones, each filled with native plants surrounding the seated areas.
Gelephu Airport’s design will be showcased at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, Ancient Future in May and exhibited until September.
