Location: Cebu, Philippines.
Architect: Integrated Design Associates Limited.
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) in the Philippines is the second largest airport in the country. To meet the growing traffic demands, a new Terminal 2 for international traffic is being built to supplement the existing Terminal 1, which will be converted to domestic use when T2 is completed. The new terminal is designed to accommodate 4 million passengers per annum initially, with the capacity to grow to 8 million within the next 10 years. The modular design of the terminal allows for incremental expansion to meet future changes. The new Terminal 2 is designed to offer a resort-like feel while functioning as a transport interchange. The building is designed to withstand seismic activity and typhoons, and is made from sustainable materials that can be built by local craftsmen. The 3-story terminal building comprises of departure facilities at the top level and arrival facilities at ground and mezzanine levels. The main roof structure is composed of arrays of glulam arches spanning 30m, and air-conditioning ducts are fully integrated into the valleys of the vaulted roof. The 15m high main north and south façades offer clear, uninterrupted views out of the building. A 100m footbridge connects the drop-off forecourt and the terminal, covered with air-filled ETFE cushions for its lightness, visual transparency, and thermal performance. The MCIA project has already broken records during its construction, with the glulam timber structure being the biggest project of its kind in the world. The use of laminated timber is another first for a major transport building in Asia, selected for its low-carbon footprint, ease of erection, and natural self-finish. The MCIA project is expected to transform the airport from a city airport to a world-class international hub, as the main gateway to the central Philippine region. The new Terminal 2 is designed to offer a new experience for passengers, with a bold design that is a celebrated landmark and a symbol of pride for Cebu.
Photo credit: John Nye.