Terminal 3 at Tokyo Narita International Airport has begun operations, with the facility now welcoming a growing number of low-cost carriers including the likes of Japan Vanilla Air, Jeju Air, Jetstar Japan, Jetstar Airways and Spring Airlines.
As the designated “budget terminal” at Narita (see here), Terminal 3 comprises of a three-storey building that is attached to a two-storey satellite facility. In total, the size of the terminal is 66,000sqm. Meanwhile, walking from Terminal 2 to 3 would take approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
In terms of design, the corridors of the new terminal resemble running tracks, with clear instructions printed on them to direct passengers towards the facility. The simple yet effective design was budget-driven, due to restraints that ultimately led to the removal of moving walkways, or the use of illuminated airport signs.
Meanwhile, the “sports” theme is also indicative of Tokyo’s position as the host city for the 2020 Summer Olympics – an international event that frequently see host countries invest in their infrastructure as well as aviation hubs. For example, the 2008 Beijing Olympics saw the Chinese government invest heavily in the expansion and renovation of Beijing Capital International Airport, which included the development of the new Terminal 3, designed by architect Normal Forster.
Finally, passengers passing through the budget terminal at Narita may also recognise the distinctive designs of Japanese retail company, Muji. Known for its minimalist and “no-frills” style, the brand aims to deliver high quality products at lower retail prices – perfect for the new Terminal 3.
For more information, visit narita-airport.jp
Clement Huang
