Budapest Airport Launches €1 Billion Terminal Expansion to Boost Capacity

Construction has officially begun on a new terminal complex at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, launching a long-term development programme aimed at expanding capacity and modernising Hungary’s primary international gateway.

The start of works was marked by a foundation stone ceremony attended by senior representatives from government and the aviation sector, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Minister for National Economy Márton Nagy, Nicolas Notebaert, President of VINCI Concessions and VINCI Airports, and Budapest Airport CEO François Berisot.

€1 Billion Development Programme

The terminal project forms part of a €1 billion, multi-year investment plan designed to strengthen the airport’s infrastructure, enhance passenger experience and support Hungary’s long-term economic and tourism growth.

Passenger traffic has risen sharply in recent years. In 2025, the airport handled nearly 20 million passengers – a substantial increase compared with traffic levels recorded when VINCI Airports assumed operational management in partnership with the Hungarian state. The sustained growth has underscored the need for additional terminal capacity and expanded airside facilities.

Scope of the New Terminal Complex

The development will include:

• A new 35,000 m² terminal building featuring centralised check-in areas
• Redesigned security screening zones to optimise throughput
• Integrated retail and commercial areas
• A 19,000 m² passenger pier
• Expansion of apron space by approximately 132,000 m²
• 13 additional aircraft stands
• A dedicated aircraft de-icing facility

In parallel, landside improvements will involve car park refurbishments, adjustments to internal road layouts and upgrades to curbside access.

Interim Enhancements at Terminal 2

To support passenger flows during construction, upgrades are being implemented at Terminal 2. These measures include:

• Reconfiguration of the check-in hall to accommodate additional counters
• Modernisation of security lanes with updated screening technology
• Relocation of automated border control gates
• Introduction of a dedicated processing lane for passengers with reduced mobility, families and fast-track travellers
• Extension of Pier B to handle increased non-Schengen arrivals

Surface Access Improvements

The Hungarian government has outlined complementary transport initiatives to improve airport accessibility, including plans for a direct rail connection and upgrades to the express road serving the airport.

Long-Term Capacity Impact

Once fully delivered, the expansion is expected to raise annual passenger capacity by more than 10 million travellers. The project is positioned to reinforce Budapest Airport’s role as a key Central European hub while supporting continued growth in regional connectivity and international tourism.

Source: Company Announcment