Billion-euro airport expansion begins in Budapest with Terminal+ project

A major expansion has begun at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, where the cornerstone of the new Terminal+ complex has been laid. The project could become one of Hungary’s largest transport investments in the coming years.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Nicolas Notebaert, President of VINCI Airports, ceremonially placed the cornerstone of the new terminal together with a time capsule on 20 February, AIRportal.hu reported.

According to the plans presented, the development will build on the existing facilities and create a larger, integrated terminal complex.

A world-class Central European hub

Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister said the development would significantly strengthen Budapest Airport’s regional role. By the end of the decade, it could become one of the region’s leading aviation and tourism hubs, with annual passenger numbers potentially reaching 25 million.

The development is also expected to support tourism growth and strengthen Hungary’s role as a regional aviation gateway.

The investment linked to Terminal 2 is valued at close to €1 billion. Plans to connect the airport to the rail network also remain on the agenda and are expected to be implemented under a concession scheme.

Orbán also noted that cooperation between the Hungarian state and VINCI made it possible for the airport to return to majority Hungarian ownership in 2024. According to the Prime Minister, the facility generated €331 million in profit last year, significantly exceeding expectations.

What will be built under the Terminal+ project?

Within the roughly €1 billion investment programme, several major developments will be carried out. Plans include: