Angola's Future Takes Flight: A Sustainable Hub for Global Connectivity and Local Prosperity
A Visionary Masterplan for Angola's Economic Ascendance
The distinguished British architecture studio, Foster + Partners, has proudly unveiled its inaugural project in Angola: a comprehensive masterplan designed to transform the 13,480-hectare area surrounding the Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport, situated approximately 40 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Luanda. This ambitious undertaking, dubbed the Icolo e Bengo Aerotropolis, aims to elevate Angola's international profile and stimulate economic growth within Luanda.
The Aerotropolis Concept: A Catalyst for Urban Development
Gerard Evenden, head of Foster + Partners' studio, expressed enthusiasm for this groundbreaking project, highlighting the new airport's pivotal role as a catalyst for future urban development. He envisions the aerotropolis evolving into a dynamic center for business, education, and hospitality, seamlessly integrated with Luanda's natural landscape. The masterplan is meticulously crafted to attract investment, generate local employment, and draw visitors from across the globe.
An Integrated Urban Design: Connecting Districts with Green Infrastructure
An aerotropolis fundamentally represents an urban area meticulously planned around an airport. The Icolo e Bengo Aerotropolis, as conceived by Foster + Partners, will be structured into three distinct districts located to the north, west, and south of the airport. These areas will be interconnected by a lush, 42-kilometer 'green loop' that will feature an integrated transport network, including public buses, trams, and dedicated cycle paths. This green infrastructure will also incorporate landscaped green spaces designed to manage rainwater runoff towards the Kwanza River, adorned with native flora and offering recreational zones for residents and visitors.
Distinct Districts for Diverse Functions and Sustainable Growth
The northern district of the Icolo e Bengo Aerotropolis is envisioned as a vibrant hub for business and culture, establishing a direct link to Luanda's existing city center. This initial phase of the project is projected to feature high-rise structures, symbolizing the region's modernization. To the west, a low-rise innovation district will emerge, fostering research and technological advancements. Meanwhile, the southern district, bordering the picturesque Quisama National Park, is designed as a hospitality-focused zone, boasting luxurious hotels, villas, and state-of-the-art sports facilities, positioning it as a premier luxury destination within Angola.
Pioneering Sustainable Practices: Green Energy and Environmental Harmony
A cornerstone of Foster + Partners' design philosophy for the aerotropolis is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The development is planned to be powered by green energy, with a vast installation of three square kilometers of photovoltaic panels strategically placed near the airport. Furthermore, the masterplan's layout is meticulously organized to harness prevailing winds, ensuring naturally cool and comfortable temperatures throughout the entire development, minimizing the need for artificial cooling and enhancing overall energy efficiency.