Developing world’s first resort airport, GMR way

Hyderabad: Constructed and developed by GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC), the new international Terminal 2 of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), which was  inaugurated on June 7, 2018, resembles a resort. Operations from this terminal are slated to take off on July 1.

Inaugurating the new terminal, Philippines President Rodrigo appreciated the work done by GMCAC and recognised the efforts of the Department of Transportation, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority and GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation for constructing the world-class transportation facility. “It is the most beautiful airport in the country today,” he said while speaking at the event. 

He further complemented GMCAC for the Filipino style construction of the Terminal and acknowledged that while infrastructure projects often run into hurdles with land acquisition, Mactan Cebu airport project has been completed within the stated timelines.

Since GMR consortium took over the airport operations in April 2014, the number of international destinations connected to Cebu have grown from 6 to 22 leading to significant growth in international traffic and has contributed to the growth of tourism in the region.

Srinivas Bommidala, Chairman, Energy and International Airports, GMR Group and Chairman, GMCAC, said, “Terminal 2 is a testament to GMR Group’s credentials as a leading global airport developer and operator. We are optimistic about the Philippines’ growth story, specifically in aviation, and look forward to contributing further to its ongoing Build, Build, Build programme of the Philippines government.” 

The GMR consortium has invested over $600 million till date in development of the project and payment of upfront premium. The construction of the T2 commenced in June 2015 and was completed on time in line with the concession agreement signed with the local authorities. 

The driving force behind development of T2 has been the desire to build a resort airport in line with the natural beauty that the Cebu region has to offer. Each element of the airport - starting with the wooden roof to the concrete floor with mother of pearl shells to give the impression that one is walking in sand.

The Terminal 2 will offer an exciting and wide-ranging retail environment with approximately 3,000 sq m. of gross leasable area dedicated to commercial space for the convenience and leisure of passengers.

It features a walk-through Duty Free that has a dedicated floor area of approximately 895 sq. m., making world-class shopping easy and accessible. Its design concept complements the look and feel of T2 to give a lasting, feel-good impression of the Cebu experience to tourists and business travelers.