Daa International, the international airport management and advisory business of the daa Group, has secured a contract to develop, lease and operate a new premium passenger service at Washington Dulles International Airport in the US.
The facility will be the first dedicated VIP passenger terminal of its kind serving the Washington metropolitan region.
The planned 37,000 square feet facility will provide commercial airline passengers with a premium alternative airport experience.
The project includes a 30-month development phase followed by a 20-year operating term and reflects growing demand worldwide for premium passenger services.
Daa said the new contact strengthens its presence in North America, where ARI, its travel retail business, has recently been awarded the duty-free contract in JFK Terminal 4.
The company also operates the Platinum VIP private terminal at Dublin Airport, a VIP terminal currently being designed in Vietnam, and management of Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Nick Cole, daa Deputy CEO and CEO of daa International, said that Washington Dulles International Airport plays a vital role in connecting the US with the world.
“We look forward to bringing our international airport experience and operational expertise to the delivery of a VIP facility that reflects the airport’s global standing,” Mr Cole said.
“This appointment demonstrates the continued confidence that airport authorities place in daa International’s ability to deliver complex, high-profile aviation projects. It is also a testament to the expertise of our team and the strength of the wider daa Group,” he added.
Chryssa Westerlund, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at MWAA, said that adding a VIP terminal at Dulles International reflects its commitment to giving passengers the options to choose an airport experience that fits their needs.
“By introducing this premium service, Dulles is responding to traveller demand, supporting continued growth and joining other leading international airports around the world that offer elevated services for business and leisure travellers alike,” she added.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said he welcomed the new partnership which brings Irish aviation expertise to one of the United States’ most significant international airports.
“The award of this contract to daa International is a positive endorsement of the expertise, innovation and international reputation that daa has built in international airport management and advisory services,” Minister O’Brien said.
“This contract provides an opportunity for daa to strengthen its presence in the US, a key market for Irish companies who are supporting the US Transportation and logistics network and creating jobs in communities across the country,” he added.
