Relief For Bengalureans! Switching Between Terminals At Bengaluru Airport To Get Easier; Here’s How

Travellers, this is for you! Switching terminals at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru may soon become much easier. Authorities are planning to introduce Automated People Movers (APMs). These are rail-based transit systems designed for short distances. The airport operator has now invited bids for the project. Here is everything you need to know about this. 

Bengaluru Airport Might Soon Get APMs

Frequent flyers know this well. Switching terminals can be a hassle. You often need extra time for transfers, which may include shuttle buses, taxis, or long walks. But things may soon change at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport. According to a report by The Times of India, Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) is planning to introduce Automated People Movers at the airport.

Authorities are inviting bids till Wednesday for design consultancy and related services for the project. Before getting into more details, here is what APMs actually are. Automated People Movers are driverless, rail-based transit systems built for short-distance travel. They can handle high passenger frequency with ease. These systems are commonly used at airports, theme parks, and large campuses. APMs use technologies such as monorails or rubber tyres, allowing smooth and efficient movement of passengers between terminals.

Also Read: Bengaluru Airport Has New Pick-Up Rules, Forcing Passengers To Walk 1.5 Km With Luggage

Airport Currently Uses Shuttle Buses For Inter-Terminal Transit 

According to a report by The Times of India, APMs are already operational at many airports in the US, Malaysia, China, and Singapore. Initial plans to install APMs at Bengaluru airport were first announced in December 2023, but the project was delayed. Once operational, KIA will become the first airport in India to have an automated inter-terminal transit system. Pretty impressive, right? 

Bengaluru airport already makes news for its beautiful terminals and cleanliness. This could give it another reason to boast! Currently, electric shuttle buses are used to transfer passengers between the two terminals. There is more news as well. BIAL’s subsidiary, Bangalore Airport Hotel Limited (BAHL), is seeking consultants to conduct a feasibility study for an ultra-luxury hotel at the airport. This project is still at the tendering stage, and more details are awaited. 

Also Read: Bengaluru Airport Gets Unexpected Visitors: Two Monkeys Seen Roaming Inside Terminal 2 Premises

What do you think of APMs at Bengaluru airport? Do you think this move will make travel easier for flyers and airport staff? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Cover Image Courtesy: @143_pushpendra/ X and Kempegowda International Airport, Wikipedia/Sameer2905