Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Japan has opened a revamped international terminal with the expanded capacity to handle 17 million more annual passengers.

French firm Vinci Airports, which operates more than 70 airports in 13 countries, has managed KIX since 2016 in conjunction with Japanese company Orix. 

According to Vinci, capacity at Osaka Kansai's international terminal has grown from 23 million to 40 million yearly passengers.

“This major renovation is designed to enhance the passenger experience as well as to increase the surface [area] dedicated to international travel,” Vinci says in a statement, adding that the modernized terminal “delivers better operations through centralized functions for immigration security.”

A new international departure area features a plaza with “commercial islands based on Vinci Airports’ concept of design by mood,” Vinci says. The area has “high-end stores from renowned luxurious brands,” the airport operator adds. “This new phase puts KIX at the top of main Asian airports for its passenger experience.”

Vinci notes the project has been completed in advance of the World Expo 2025, which is being held in Osaka from April 2025 to October 2025 and is expected to bring a surge of international travelers.