Doha: Doha International Airport (DIA) is preparing to open its new Terminal B -- a dedicated facility for foreign airlines -- before the end of June, just in time for the summer holiday rush, a release issued by Qatar Airways said yesterday.
As a result, the check-in area of the existing Transfer and Departures terminal - to be renamed Terminal A - will be used exclusively for Qatar Airways.
Designed to enhance the departure experience for travellers leaving Qatar, the major airport upgrade will facilitate the increased passenger traffic through Doha International Airport until the state-of-the-art New Doha International Airport (NDIA) opens in 2012.
The new 2,000 square metre large Terminal B, developed on the premises of the former arrivals terminal at DIA, will be entirely dedicated to the over 30 foreign airlines operating services from Doha.
Highlights of the new terminal include an enlarged check-in area with 35 counters, including an online check-in lounge, a dedicated customer service desk for oversized luggage, a currency exchange bureau, ATM machines, a new high-tech baggage handling system, and food and beverage outlets.
An enlarged 600 square metre immigration hall with 10 counters and three e-gates will help prevent long queues.
Following their respective immigration counter areas in both terminals, passengers walk into the common airside environment of the existing Transfer and Departures building and have access to the same present-day retail shopping, airport lounges, prayer rooms, food court and other facilities. The move of foreign airlines to the new Terminal B allows Qatar Airways to ramp up service for its passengers, who will benefit from a more spacious check-in area at the current Departures facility, renamed Terminal A, and exclusively dedicated to Qatar Airways.
© The Peninsula 2011
