Lithuanian Airports (LTOU) has signed a design contract for the future Vilnius Airport Arrivals Terminal with ZHA, marking a key milestone in the development of the new arrivals terminal that is expected to open to passengers by the end of 2028.

A signing ceremony took place at Vilnius Airport, at the symbolic location where the new terminal will be situated, attended by the Minister of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Lithuania, the Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Project Director at ZHA, and representatives from Lithuanian Airports and the Vilnius City Municipality.

Minister of Transport and Communications Juras Taminskas said: “It is not only about how we bid farewell, but also how we welcome. The arrivals terminal is the country’s calling card – the first impression of Lithuania. We want arriving passengers to be greeted by a Lithuania that is modern, contemporary, and rapidly developing. Equally important is that this terminal will become a key part of Lithuania’s wider mobility system, connecting air, rail, bus, bicycle and other transport links, ensuring smooth travel for everyone. Thus, the new arrivals terminal will transform not only Vilnius Airport’s face but the entire mobility ecosystem around it.”

The new Vilnius Airport Arrivals Terminal will focus on functionality and deliver a world-class passenger experience. Contractor selection for construction works is planned for the first half of 2027. The initial design phase includes a spacious and modern baggage claim hall, an arrivals area, new access roads, and redesigned public spaces.

Arnas Dūmanas, Director of the Infrastructure Department at Lithuanian Airports said: “We are continuing the systematic expansion of Vilnius Airport’s passenger infrastructure – a strategic step outlined both in our long-term master plan and the Government programme. We are delighted that ZHA will be leading this project. The concept for the new arrivals terminal seeks to create a harmonious airport complex where functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability meet. It’s another major step toward more modern, convenient, and sustainable travel experiences in Lithuania.”

Ludovico Lombardi, Director at ZHA said: “It is a great honour for us to design the new arrivals terminal in Vilnius. Expanding capacity within an operational airport requires precise coordination with existing structures and systems – it is an architectural dialogue between the new terminal’s unique design and the established infrastructure. Our experience from developing some of the world’s most advanced passenger terminals – in Beijing, Sydney, and Mumbai – will ensure that the new Vilnius terminal meets the highest standards of passenger comfort and experience.”

The total area of the future terminal will exceed 12,500 square metres providing new retail, hospitality amenities and service areas including office space for Lithuanian Airports employees.

At the building’s entrance a new public square will be created, while the surrounding area will feature a redesigned traffic scheme to improve accessibility for arriving passengers and visitors.

Inspired by Lithuanian diamonds and triangle motifs, the architecture expresses the nation’s evolving cultural identity – uniting local character with contemporary design forming a symmetrical extension of the existing terminals. The architectural concept proposed by ZHA aims to unify all Vilnius Airport terminals into a cohesive complex.

The design will integrate connections between rail, bus, bicycle, and pedestrian networks, ensuring convenient access for all travellers, including people with reduced mobility. The project will feature sustainable solutions, such as rainwater harvesting systems, green landscaping, and the use of natural materials. Visual transparency, clear wayfinding, and spacious public areas will enhance orientation and overall passenger experience.