São Nicolau Airport, Cape Verde

The Challenge

AiQ were required to provide capacity planning for a temporary structure to serve as a commercial airport within a restricted space and budget at Cape Verde. The client, the Cape Verde Government, wanted an airport that worked within a restricted budget and tight space but to RICOA standards, in order to give the passenger experience expected by international tourists. The requirement was for a professional, modern building that worked to improve tourism in the Islands by providing a fantastic, efficient passenger experience.

The Solution

The existing terminal was a poor, small, temporary structure. Working with Losberger, the architects, we were able to advise on the exact size needed for the replacement airport to balance the restricted space with the requirements of the client.

We were given the international airport schedule and from that data we determined required capacity including check-in, security, departure lounge, screening area, aircraft aprons and stands, arrival reclaim size and the arrivals hall size. This had to be done quickly, and within three months the design was finalized and building underway. The project is expected to be completed within nine months.

There are now talks to provide similar services to other islands within the Republic of Cape Verde.

The Benefit

AiQ worked quickly to provide the data and simulations necessary to turn this project around. Working with the architect and other stakeholders, including the government client, we were able to provide a solution that fulfilled requirements, satisfied stakeholders and will provide an exceptional passenger experience befitting their beautiful tourist destination, all within an airport half the size of Oxford Bus Station.