Bangalore International Airport

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) is a public-private consortium that owns and operates Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport), India's third-busiest airport. Incorporated in January 2001 as a special purpose entity, BIAL was formed to build and operate a new greenfield airport to serve Bengaluru as an alternative to the congested HAL Airport. The airport commenced operations on May 24, 2008. This project was the first greenfield airport in India developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, which set a precedent for airport privatization in the country.

BIAL operates under a concession agreement with the Government of India, initially for 30 years and later extended until 2068. The company's ownership structure consists of private promoters holding a 74% stake and government entities holding the remaining 26%. As of late 2024, the primary stakeholders are Fairfax Financial Holdings (54%), Siemens Project Ventures (20%), the Airports Authority of India (13%), and the Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (13%). The business model relies on a hybrid revenue structure, combining aeronautical sources (passenger fees, landing/parking charges) regulated by the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) and non-aeronautical streams. Non-aeronautical revenue is generated from commercial activities such as retail, food and beverages, duty-free sales, lounge access, and real estate developments, including office parks and hospitality.

Kempegowda International Airport is spread over 16 square kilometers and features two terminals and two parallel runways. In response to rapid passenger growth, which made it one of the world's fastest-growing airports, BIAL has undertaken significant expansion. A major milestone was the launch of Terminal 2 (T2), known as the "Terminal in a Garden." T2 is distinguished by its biophilic design, incorporating extensive greenery, hanging gardens, and natural materials to reflect Bengaluru's "Garden City" identity. This terminal, recognized at UNESCO's 2023 Prix Versailles as one of the 'World's most beautiful airports', is also a leader in sustainability, being the largest terminal globally to receive a LEED Platinum pre-certification. The airport is Karnataka's first to be fully solar-powered.

In addition to passenger services, BIAL has heavily invested in cargo infrastructure. The airport hosts three cargo terminals and India's first dedicated Express Cargo Terminal. Specialized facilities include the "AISATS COOLPORT" for temperature-sensitive perishable and pharmaceutical goods and an on-airport public bonded warehouse to facilitate trade and reduce supply chain costs.

Keywords: airport operations, public-private partnership, aviation infrastructure, aeronautical revenue, non-aeronautical revenue, passenger traffic, cargo logistics, Kempegowda International Airport, greenfield airport, terminal management, sustainable aviation, biophilic design, duty-free retail, airport commercial development, air cargo handling, ground handling, BLR Airport, South India aviation, airport expansion, Terminal 2, smart airport, logistics hub