Indian Airports Blend Tradition With Modernity: Economist
The report cited Bill Drexel, an American think-tank researcher, who said Bangalore’s Terminal 2 left an immediate impression.
India’s airports stand out globally for their unique designs, blending modern infrastructure with cultural elements, according to a report by the Economist. The report noted that while air travel in India can be frustrating due to delays, inconsistent security measures, and high costs, airport architecture reflects both India’s capabilities and challenges.
According to the Economist, many countries use airport design to signal economic growth. The report highlighted Qatar’s Hamad International, Turkey’s vast Istanbul Airport, and China’s Beijing Daxing, which showcase futuristic aesthetics to assert their global status.
The Economist stated that India has taken a different path. Bangalore’s Terminal 2, opened in 2023, was designed as a “terminal in a garden.” The report described its bamboo-covered beams, earthy tones, and greenery as a departure from conventional glass-and-steel designs.
The report cited Bill Drexel, an American think-tank researcher, who said Bangalore’s Terminal 2 left an immediate impression. The Economist also quoted analyst Tanner Greer, who compared Indian and Chinese airport designs, calling Indian futurism “pleasant” while describing China’s approach as “raw and ugly.”
The Economist observed that earlier Indian airports followed global trends. The report noted that Bangalore and Hyderabad’s airports, both launched in 2008, had standard modern aesthetics. It also pointed out that Delhi’s Terminal 3, opened in 2010, maintained a similar style, with its carpet often criticised.
Mumbai’s Terminal 2, completed in 2014, marked a shift. The report explained that its design incorporated the peacock motif in columns, lighting, and signage, ensuring travellers immediately recognised they were in India.
The report stated that other recent airports continued this trend. The Economist highlighted Goa’s second airport, opened in 2023, which features elements of Portuguese-influenced homes. It also noted that the upcoming second Mumbai airport, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is themed around the lotus flower.
Indian infrastructure often integrates traditional art and motifs. The report pointed out that murals, local landmarks, and decorative elements appear in airport designs, metro stations, and bridges. While not always visually consistent, these features distinguish Indian public spaces.
The Economist quoted architect Derek Moore, who said aesthetic elements increased the cost of Mumbai and Bangalore’s terminals by only 1-2%. The report noted that in a cost-conscious country, authorities and private developers view this as a justified expense.
The report highlighted that India prioritises cultural continuity in its airport designs. The Economist quoted Moore saying Mumbai’s Terminal 2 was intended to “embody the heritage of India” while maintaining a modern identity. The report contrasted this with China’s approach, which emphasises futuristic designs over cultural elements.
The Economist also pointed to the impact of privatisation on airport development. The report explained that before privatisation, state-run airports were poorly maintained. While private investment improved facilities, many public transport hubs remain neglected.
