Lithuanian Airports has launched an international architectural competition for the design of a new arrivals building at Vilnius Airport (VNO). The aim of the competition is to find innovative solutions that will not only meet functional and aesthetic requirements, but also support the future development of the airport infrastructure. The winner will be expected to design not only the terminal, but also its integration into the surrounding area, including the new departure terminal, the central square and the future Rail Baltica station.
Lithuanian airports are known for their comprehensive development plans. The competition, organized in cooperation with the Lithuanian Association of Architects, is looking to attract the best ideas from around the world. Arnas Dūmanas, Head of the Development Department of Lithuanian Airports, explained that the selection will be made by a jury of renowned architects and urban planners. Among them are Laura Kairienė, Chief Architect of Vilnius, and Tom Holtmann from the Nordic Office of Architecture.
Architects have until February 2025 to submit their proposals. The jury will then decide based on criteria such as innovation, sustainability and functionality. The winner will have the opportunity to develop the final design for the terminal, which is scheduled to go into operation by the end of 2028.
Challenge and Perspectives
The competition is part of a long-term master plan to modernize the infrastructure of Lithuania's airports. With a planned capacity of up to 17 million passengers annually by 2052, the country wants to strengthen its position as an important transport hub in the region. Sustainability is also being emphasized, for example through the expansion of solar energy and environmentally friendly architecture.
The new arrival building will make a significant contribution to improving the passenger experience and meeting growing demand. It complements the new departure terminal, which is already ahead of schedule and will open in early 2025. The focus on modular construction and innovative approaches is part of the strategy to make Vilnius Airport competitive at an international level.
A global approach
By choosing an international competition, Lithuanian airports are emphasizing their intention to set global standards. Gintaras Balčytis, Chairman of the Lithuanian Association of Architects, sees this as an opportunity to implement the latest trends in airport architecture. This approach has delivered proven results in the past in similar projects in Europe and beyond.
The new terminal will not only optimize the airport's operations, but will also create an aesthetic landmark for Vilnius that will impress visitors from all over the world. With these measures, Lithuanian airports are positioning themselves as pioneers of innovative and sustainable infrastructure projects in the region.
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