The main Bucharest airport Henri Coanda doubled its capacity with the recent opening of a new terminal for departures. The airport can now operate with 4,500 passengers an hour during peak times, and is another step closer to becoming a regional hub.

The new terminal will take over all the domestic flights and will solve the gate problems for Schengen area flights.

This was part of the third phase of the airport modernization program. Work started in July 2011 and carried on over the last 17 months, being finalized in a 'record time' according to airport officials. It required an investment of EUR 52 million.

The new terminal measures 19,600 sqm and was designed taking into account the demands needed for Romania to join the Schengen area. It adds 52 check in desks to the existing 52, and eight self check in in devices.

The Otopeni airport has become more crowded after all flights were moved from secondary airport Baneasa in March this year.

editor@romania-insider.com