Tallinn Airport is preparing for the largest redevelopment in its history, unveiling a €75 million terminal upgrade designed to accommodate a surge in passenger traffic and redefine the traveller experience at Estonia’s main gateway.
The six-year project comes as annual passenger numbers climb toward five million — far beyond the 2.8 million capacity the terminal was originally built to handle. Construction will unfold in five phases to keep the airport fully operational.
First Phase Under Way
Work has already begun on the renovation of the check-in hall, including the installation of new-generation self-service systems aimed at easing congestion during peak hours.
Riivo Tuvike, chairman of the management board, said the expansion was essential to protect the airport’s hallmark mix of efficiency and warmth.
“Tallinn Airport must evolve alongside Estonia — fast, convenient and innovative, while remaining welcoming and human,” he said.
He acknowledged recent strains, including longer baggage-delivery times and queues at border control, issues the redevelopment aims to resolve.
A Calm Nordic Expansion
The extension — designed by architect Jaan Kuusemets of Dagopen — will add a northern wing and several smaller structures, forming a unified ribbon façade along the existing terminal. Natural timber, expansive glazing and views toward both the city and airfield will shape a distinctly Nordic atmosphere.
The project will add around 16,500 m² of new space and refurbish more than 18,000 m².
Engineering Behind the Aesthetic
A major re-engineering effort lies beneath the design. Upcoming phases include:
- A new arrivals hall
- A modern baggage-handling system
- Two new gates
- Expanded border control and commercial areas
- Enlarged security screening zone
- New VIP and retail facilities
One of the biggest challenges will be completing the works with minimal disruption. Tuvike warned passengers to expect temporary detours and occasional queues, but said the improvements will deliver “a significantly more comfortable, contemporary airport experience.”
By the end of the decade, Tallinn Airport aims to present a refreshed identity reflecting Estonia itself: technologically confident, rooted in nature, and understated in design.