Vilnius Airport Opens New Departures Terminal
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Vilnius Airport (VNO) has officially opened its new departures terminal, significantly enhancing the airport’s capacity and modernizing passenger services. The newly inaugurated facility, operational as of February 4, 2025, expands the airport’s ability to serve up to 2,400 passengers per hour, a substantial increase from the previous 1,200 per hour. This development marks a major milestone in Lithuania’s aviation infrastructure, ensuring Vilnius Airport can accommodate growing passenger demand while improving overall efficiency.
Key Features of the New Departures Terminal
The 14,400-square-meter facility introduces a range of modern enhancements, including:
- Increased Capacity: The expansion boosts the airport’s overall passenger processing efficiency, reducing wait times and congestion.
- Modern Check-In Area: Featuring self-service baggage drop-off kiosks for a more seamless check-in experience.
- Expanded Security Screening: The terminal includes state-of-the-art security facilities aimed at expediting passenger processing.
- New Boarding Bridges: Two additional passenger boarding bridges have been installed, improving aircraft boarding and deplaning efficiency.
- Improved Commercial Spaces: The terminal incorporates new duty-free shops, restaurants, and passenger lounges, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
The first floor of the terminal houses check-in counters, airline offices, and public areas, while the second floor is dedicated to security screening and departure gates serving Schengen destinations. A new connecting gallery links the facility with the existing terminal, ensuring smooth transitions for passengers.
Infrastructure and Transportation Upgrades
In addition to the new terminal, Vilnius Airport has undergone major infrastructure improvements, including:
- Upgraded Road Access: The airport entrance area has been redesigned to improve traffic flow and passenger drop-off zones.
- Weather Protection Enhancements: New canopies and covered walkways have been introduced to shield passengers from adverse weather conditions.
- Engineering and Utility Improvements: Modernized baggage handling systems and energy-efficient facilities have been integrated into the new terminal design.
These updates aim to create a more efficient and passenger-friendly environment, reinforcing Vilnius Airport’s role as a key aviation hub in the Baltic region.
Future Expansion Plans
Lithuanian Airports has outlined additional development projects aimed at further modernizing Vilnius Airport, including:
- Terminal Renovations: By 2026, further improvements will be made to existing airport infrastructure.
- New Arrivals Terminal: A dedicated arrivals terminal is scheduled for completion by 2028, complementing the newly opened departures terminal.
The long-term vision for Vilnius Airport is to continue expanding in line with increasing passenger traffic while ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency.
Official Statements
Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports, emphasized the technological advancements introduced in the new terminal:
“This expansion represents a major leap in passenger experience and operational efficiency. The new departures terminal allows us to serve more travelers with enhanced comfort and security, setting a new standard for aviation in Lithuania.”
Gintautas Paluckas, Lithuania’s Prime Minister, underscored the terminal’s importance for national connectivity:
“Vilnius Airport is evolving to meet growing passenger expectations, ensuring a more seamless travel experience for both domestic and international travelers. This expansion aligns with Lithuania’s long-term aviation strategy.”
Bottom Line
The opening of Vilnius Airport’s new departures terminal marks a transformative milestone for Lithuania’s aviation sector. With expanded capacity, modern facilities, and improved passenger services, the airport is now better equipped to handle increasing travel demand. As additional infrastructure projects unfold in the coming years, Vilnius Airport is set to strengthen its position as a key gateway for international travel in the Baltic region.
