Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport has won the title of Best Airport in Africa at the World Airport Awards held in Denmark.
The awards covered 240 airports across the globe and were based on 11.38 million survey questionnaires completed by over 100 different nationalities of airline passengers in 2010/11.
The awardees noted that the airport was one of the most improved airports worldwide. The award follows a year after the airport officially opened its Central Terminal Building in April 2009. Arup was responsible for conceptual design, masterplanning and project management of the multibillion rand infrastructure development and its associated infrastructure, accommodating 20 million passengers a year.
The organisers noted that OR Tambo International airport could compete comfortably in comparison to any airport worldwide.
Arup is also currently working on the new Midfield Development, a new terminal building that includes commercial precincts and cargo facilities, for which Arup was appointed as development managers. The project will be developed over many phases in line with passenger demand. The total development is valued at over R200bn.
The new development, according to project leader James Oppenheim, utilises a number of the firm’s specialist skills including aviation which has been instrumental in ensuring the delivery of the project.
“"The project was delivered on time and in budget as per the client’s specifications. Going forward, Arup's outstanding skills will ensure that Africa’s largest airport remains Africa’s best airport."
- Damane Hlalele, South Africa Group leader