The Challenge
The Salvador da Bahia International Airport renovation and extension project developed by Engexpor hinged on three key aspects that would ultimately determine its success: the size and complexity of a highly demanding project, in terms of technical requirements and organisation; a short completion deadline; and the requirement to carry out works in a fully functioning airport.
Size and Complexity
The area involved totalled 81,000 m², including the renovated area (61,000 m²) and airport expansion (20,000 m²), which involved the building of a new pier and the respective boarding gates. A stationary bridge was also built for future expansion.
Project Deadline
Works were required to be completed within 20 months, a very tight deadline considering project complexity, the large number of tasks involved and the requirement for strict compliance with the most stringent quality standards. In this sense, the ability to meet the deadline represented a key success factor.
Operating Airport
In an activity sector were organisation and logistics are critical and no details can be neglected, works were carried in a fully functioning airport, which called for new planning and systematisation methodologies. For instance, renovation works at the existing terminal involved the carrying out of over 100 tasks simultaneously with continuous airport operation.
The Solution
Given the challenges faced, on various levels, our technical and planning capabilities were crucial to carrying out works of considerable size and complexity, in compliance with the strict requirements applicable to the aviation sector. In addition to ensuring construction quality, we were able to fulfil all project demands by successfully managing costs and deadlines.
Planning
Each task was planned and coordinated with the respective team 30 days in advance. This methodology enabled us to anticipate eventual problems, prepare the most adequate solutions and be able to respond immediately to all possible situations, including unforeseen events occurring during the construction stage. This approach allowed us to meet project completion deadlines.
Procedures and Logistics
Several procedures were set out, which called for efficient collaboration and communication between the various teams involved, including the engineering and safety departments, as well as the airport logistics team. Team coordination and continuous communication between project developers and workers were key to meeting the stringent quality, safety and operational requirements specified.
The Result
By successfully meeting the challenges we faced, we were able to help our client reach their goals, as well as prove our capability and specialised know-how in managing large works of high technical complexity, while continuing to implement and share good practices at our organisation.
Added Value to the Project and Users
The practices adopted, both pertaining to engineering works and organisational capabilities, resulted in added value for the client, the airport and its users. We were able to successfully increase the capacity and safety of a strategic airport for tourism and growth in the Bahia region, as well as increase comfort and improve the services provided to passengers, while ensuring compliance with the most stringent quality and safety standards.
International Benchmark
ollowing project completion, the airport is now aligned with global aviation sector trends and meets the criteria required of international airports. Operational capacity increased from 10 to 15 million passengers per year, while passenger flow and processing capacity at peak times also improved.
Renovation and extension give airport international status
BUILDING WORKS
Renovation of the Existing Terminal Building
- Replacement of the entire Baggage Handling System, involving the installation of a 100% automated baggage handling and safety inspection system;
- Installation of a Fire Detection and Firefighting System;
- Improvement of the LED lighting system;
- Improvement of the general Air Conditioning system;
- Installation of a new Effluent Treatment Station and a Solid Waste Treatment Central;
- Modernisation of all electrical substations, involving the construction of a new power station;
- Installation of new shopping areas;
- Improvement of passenger circulation;
- Modernisation of toilets and baby changing facilities;
- Installation of a new airline counter area;
- Changes to the check-in area layout.
Building of a New Pier
- Building of a new pier with 6 boarding gates; building of a stationary bridge for future expansion;
- Expansion of the apron with capacity for 26 aircraft and 17 parking slots;
- Building of a connecting corridor between the existing terminal building and the new pier.
RUNWAY WORKS
Renovation of 2 Landing and Take-off Runways (LTR)
- Taxiway and classified area adapting (LTR 17/35);
- Runway end and classified area adapting (LTR 10/28);
- Alteration of the distance between Taxiway Alfa and the central line (LTR 10/28);
- Paving of LTR 10/28;
- Modernisation of auxiliary navigation systems: vertical signalling, horizontal signalling and lighting.
The Main Players
Vinci Airports
Contracting Company
Engexpor
Project and Construction Management
Teixeira Duarte | Alves Ribeiro | Actemium
Construction
EACE Projecting Tomorrow
Architectural Design Project, Structure and Specialised Facility