BIG Unveils Design for Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan

Introduction to Gelephu International Airport

Architecture studio BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) has revealed its design for Gelephu International Airport, featuring a diagrid structure composed of glued laminated timber (glulam). The airport, located in southern Bhutan, is scheduled to open in 2029 and will be the country’s second international airport.

A Landmark Project in Bhutan

Spanning 68,000 square meters, the terminal in Gelephu will accommodate 5.5 million passengers annually by 2065. The project is a collaboration between BIG and aviation engineering firm NACO, with a design inspired by Bhutan’s subtropical forests and mountains.

A Timber Structure Inspired by Nature

The diagrid glulam framework is designed to resemble a stylized mountain range, reflecting the surrounding landscape. In addition, Bhutanese artisans will embellish the wood with intricate dragon carvings, evoking Kachen—the traditional wooden columns in Bhutanese architecture.

Key Features of the Design:

Mass Timber Construction: The terminal will be built using modular glulam structures, ensuring flexibility and future expansion.
Daylit Interiors: Large windows and skylights will allow natural light to flood the terminal, creating a serene atmosphere.
Traditional Bhutanese Craftsmanship: The structure will be adorned with locally crafted wooden carvings.
Sustainable Elements: The airport will integrate solar panels for electricity generation.

A Mindful Travel Experience

The interior of Gelephu International Airport will prioritize passenger wellbeing. It will include green courtyards, yoga spaces, meditation areas, and gong baths, aiming to create a calm and stress-free travel experience.

Integration with Mindfulness City

The airport is part of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC)—BIG’s masterplan for an economic and cultural hub in Bhutan. Outside the terminal, an arrival plaza will be divided into four zones filled with native plants, alongside stone-paved pathways, seating areas, and a protective canopy.

Debut at Venice Architecture Biennale 2025

BIG’s design for Gelephu International Airport will be featured in an installation at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. Visitors will witness a real-time carving of the terminal’s wooden facade by both a Bhutanese artisan and a machine, showcasing the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.