A leap forward: Bahrain installs hi-tech passenger boarding bridges

Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) said it has started the installation of new state-of-the-art passenger boarding bridges at the Bahrain International Airport (BIA) terminal in co-operation with the managers and airport operators.

The upgradation of key elements of the terminal forms part of the first phase of the Airport Modernization Program, which includes immediate enhancement works currently undertaken at BIA, said the company ina statement.

The installation of new air bridges is one in a series of planned initiatives at BIA which aim to boost efficiency and infrastructure quality in line with the Kingdom’s vision of developing a world-class airport that fulfils the needs and expectations of international travellers, it added.

Minister of Transportation and acting chief executive of Economic Development Board Kamal Bin Ahmed Mohammed said: “We are pleased to see our first new airbridge installed in time for the Eid peak season. This infrastructure upgrade is part of a much wider modernization program that will see improvement to facilities at the current terminal and eventually result in the construction of a new terminal, which is part of our long-term strategy of developing the aviation sector into an industry that further contributes to economic growth of Bahrain."

The first of the seven air bridges has been successfully installed with the rest scheduled to be in place before the end of the year, he stated.
 
The new state-of-the-art boarding pathways will provide passengers with a safe and comfortable walkway between the terminal and the aircrafts, similar to those found in global airports.

BAC chief executive Mohamed Yusuf Al Binfalah said: "As we push forth with our mission to establish a modern, friendly and efficient world-class entry-point into Bahrain, we are taking great care to enhance the passenger travel experience and comfort levels every step of the way."

"The new air bridges are a welcome addition to our airport and proof that we are moving full steam ahead with enhancing the infrastructure and service levels of Bahrain’s gateway," he added.

The minister also examined the 14 new hitech X-Ray machines which were recently installed at the airport in line with the continuous efforts to enhance the efficiency of operations and providing passengers with a safe and enjoyable travel experience.