Salvador Bahia Airport will renovate its food court with Bahian culture at the forefront of its design

Credit: Will Recarey / Salvador Bahia Airport

Salvador Bahia Airport (SSA) has announced that it will renovate its food court as it looks to bring more comfort to passengers and their experiences of the airport. The terminal plaza which is managed by VINCI Airports will have more seats installed which will increase capacity by 20%. It has been scheduled to take place between September and December this year, with renovation taking place in two phases to minimise the disruption it could have on passengers.

The new food court will be designed by Brazilian architect, Tais Abreu, who will bring Bahian culture at the forefront of the project, such as oil palm, acarajé, natural fibre and earthy colours that allude to so many references from Bahia and Northeast Brazil. “Without a doubt, the renovation of the food court will bring much more comfort, beauty, functionality and connection with Bahian culture to passengers. There is great care with these projects so that through them it is possible to provide a unique experience to each passenger,” said Mr Abreu.

What features will the new food court have?

Among the improvements to be implemented are:  

• Change of all furniture, flooring and coverings; expansion of the total area, occupying 1,134.80m² of the airport
• New lighting layout
• Acoustic treatment of the area and inclusion of a sound system
• More information screens for passengers
• Inclusive seats, aimed at obese, PWD and preferential people
• Expansion of available sockets
• The square will also have a pet friendly eating area, in order to meet the demands of passengers who have their pets on site.

Why are they renovating the food court?

Although it is not a requirement of the concession contract, the renovation of the food court is in line with VINCI Airports‘ commitments to provide positive experiences for passengers and to promote the appreciation of regional culture. Thus, the expansion of the square follows an investment plan by the concessionaire that, since 2018, has been bringing several improvements, such as an increase in the commercial mix and new food options.