Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is one of the largest international airports and transfer hubs in Northern Europe, serving a steadily growing number of passengers and increasingly complex baggage handling processes, particularly on routes connecting Europe and Asia. To maintain operational continuity and meet the latest security standards, the existing BHS in the arrivals area required a comprehensive upgrade, carried out entirely during live airport operations.
BHS Modernization at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), Finland
Project challenges
The modernization works had to be carried out during ongoing airport operations, in parallel with building upgrades in the same area. The entire project was divided into four carefully scheduled stages, in which Dimark installed a new BHS section in zones prepared by the general contractor. Effective coordination between Dimark and the airport’s construction team was critical to ensure smooth transitions between each project phase.
Non-standard solutions
A temporary baggage line was built to ensure uninterrupted unloading to carousels during construction. A custom-designed carousel was developed to match the angular geometry of the renovated building zone. Due to discrepancies between the BIM model and the actual structure, a flexible system of ceiling-mounted supports was engineered, allowing the suspended conveyor system to be adjusted in real time on-site.
Final results
The entire modernization was completed with no disruption to airport operations. All systems were successfully upgraded to comply with the latest IATA resolutions. A new 3D SCADA monitoring system was implemented. The project was delivered on time and within budget, fulfilling all client expectations.
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