Black-owned engineering consulting firm Gibb Engineering has completed a feasibility study (FS), commissioned by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), that investigated the construction and operational feasibility of connecting the existing Western Precinct and the Midfield Development at the OR Tambo International Airport, in Johannesburg.

The study, initiated in January, developed a three-phased approach that would lead to the development of an underground tunnel linking the cargo and terminal buildings with the aircraft stands.

Gibb says it has recognised a “clear need” for the connection of these precincts, with the FS focusing on airside transportation connectivity for the transportation of bags, airside passengers, freight and general airside support vehicles.

The scope of work defined in Phase 3 of the study evaluated the tunnel connectivity time and a possible route between the two terminals, an overall assessment on the closure of aircraft facilities during construction, the cost implications, the duration of the project, the advantages of the new connecting tunnel and the viable tunnel and road connector access points.

Further elements of the study focused on airside technical operational connectivity for general airport operational access, such as fire and rescue, marshalling and security patrolling, as well as bulk services connectivity, which could include data links and electrical, water and fuel supply.

“The tunnel connectivity is key to the future master planning and infrastructure development of the airport. It will enable the linking of the current Western Precinct to the new future cargo and midfield terminal developments.

“This linkage, once fully constructed and operational, will provide access to shorter connection times of people, baggage and services within the current infrastructure and future airside developments,”

comments Gibb transportation sector business development manager Sumeshin Naidoo.