BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) has unveiled its design for Bhutan’s Gelephu International Airport, a major development to be featured at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. As the nation’s second international airport, this project is integral to the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) masterplan, supporting Bhutan’s aviation growth while reflecting its cultural and environmental values. Located near the Bhutan-India border and the Paitha River, the airport enhances regional connectivity and promotes economic development.
Spanning 68,000 m², the airport is projected to accommodate 1.3 million passengers annually by 2040, with an expected rise to 5.5 million by 2065. Designed to handle 123 daily flights, it will serve both domestic and international travelers efficiently. The modular design ensures phased expansion, allowing for future growth without disrupting operations.
Architectural and Structural Features
The airport’s design features a modular diagrid structure made from locally sourced glulam timber. Inspired by Bhutanese architecture, particularly the “Kachen” wooden pillar, the structure symbolizes strength and spirituality. The design allows for gradual expansion or disassembly, supported by independent timber frames. Traditional Bhutanese motifs, such as dragons, will be carved into the timber, tying the design to local craftsmanship.
BIG collaborated with aviation engineering firm NACO and other partners, including Arup and Cistri, to create a facility that blends operational efficiency with cultural authenticity. The roofline mirrors a stylized mountain range, reflecting Bhutan’s surrounding landscapes. Large openings ensure abundant natural light, while passive climate-responsive features regulate indoor temperatures.
Passenger Experience and Interior Design
The terminal layout prioritizes ease of navigation and spacious circulation areas. A central courtyard, the “Forest Spine,” features indigenous plants and a treetop walkway, fostering a connection to Bhutan’s natural environment. Passenger areas include indoor and outdoor lounges designed for relaxation and mindfulness activities, with designated spaces for meditation, yoga, and gong baths to enhance well-being.
The interior design continues the theme of the exterior, incorporating carved wooden elements throughout. Skylights and large windows provide ample daylight, reducing reliance on artificial lighting, while creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere that reflects Bhutan’s values.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
The airport embraces sustainable design principles, incorporating photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency. Extended eaves offer shade and weather protection while promoting passive cooling. Ventilated roofs and courtyards facilitate natural airflow, minimizing the need for mechanical ventilation. The extensive use of timber reduces the carbon footprint, aligning with Bhutan’s commitment to environmental responsibility and its carbon-negative status.
Connectivity and Transportation Infrastructure
Gelephu International Airport will be Bhutan’s first inland mobility hub, integrating trackless trams and buses for efficient regional transportation. Public transport links will connect the airport to Gelephu’s revitalized town center and other key areas. The arrival plaza is divided into four zones, incorporating native plants and stone paving, creating a seamless transition between the natural environment and the built infrastructure.
Venice Biennale 2025 Exhibition
The architectural significance of the airport will be showcased at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, where a timber diamond piece from the airport’s façade will be sculpted live by a Bhutanese artist and a machine. This installation will highlight the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary construction technology, underscoring Bhutan’s dedication to preserving heritage while embracing modern advancements.
Long-Term Vision and Future Expansion
Designed with long-term scalability in mind, the airport’s modular structures allow for seamless expansion. The terminal will adapt to growing passenger numbers without major structural modifications. Its role in the GMC masterplan extends beyond aviation, contributing to the region’s economic and infrastructural development.
Scheduled to open in 2029, Gelephu International Airport will serve as a gateway to Bhutan, balancing modern infrastructure with cultural heritage. The project embodies Bhutan’s vision for mindful urbanization, sustainability, and connectivity, ensuring a space that respects tradition while addressing future needs.
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