Prague Airport celebrates 20 years of Terminal 2 – more than 141 million passengers

Prague Airport is celebrating 20 years of Terminal 2 this January – a structure that has fundamentally shaped travel to and from Prague. Since its opening, the terminal has represented modernity, efficiency and the Czech Republic’s membership of the European Schengen Area.

Prague Airport is marking the 20th anniversary of Terminal 2 – the building that has sustainably transformed travel to and from Prague and is regarded as a symbol of the Czech Republic’s opening up to Europe following its accession to the Schengen Area. The anniversary will be celebrated with a thematic exhibition as well as a special programme for travellers and the public. Since its opening, more than 141 million passengers have used the terminal.

Construction of the then North Terminal 2 began in 2003 and, at the time, represented the largest transport project in the Czech Republic. Three years later, a modern departure hall with the new Pier C was opened, complemented by a connecting corridor between the terminals. An automatic baggage sorting system, linked to Terminal 1 via an underground tunnel, also became operational. At the time of its launch, it was considered a technological cutting-edge solution and continues to provide efficient and secure baggage handling to this day.

Foto: Prague Airport

The main reason for building Terminal 2 was the necessary expansion of the airport’s capacity as well as the Czech Republic’s accession to the Schengen Area. This created a long-term requirement to clearly separate the operation of Schengen and non-Schengen flights. Even at its opening, the new terminal set high standards in comfort, safety and architecture. Every day, thousands of travellers pass through the building on their way to a European destination, which, even after two decades, remains defined by its clear layout, modern technology and distinctive architecture.

Among the most important changes over the past 20 years was the relocation of the central security checkpoint in 2018. The original system no longer met capacity requirements. The checkpoint is now equipped with state-of-the-art CT scanners, which speed up the process and enhance comfort. Another significant development followed in 2020 with the opening of a fourth check-in island, where passengers can now use self-service baggage drop-off desks.

Foto: Prague Airport

For the future, Prague Airport plans a comprehensive modernisation of Terminal 2, aiming to make the site one of the most advanced air transport hubs in Europe. Planned improvements include a new Pier D, a direct rail link to the centre of the Czech capital, additional business lounges, as well as hotel and conference facilities. Central to the plans are sustainability, energy efficiency and the use of modern technologies.


Prague Airport - Letiště Praha
Website | Facebook | Instagram