Pascall+Watson Architects, as part of a consortium with Zaha Hadid Architects, Buro Happold, and EC Harris, participated in an international design competition to create a concept for a new mega-airport in Beijing, China.  The team were successful and Daxing has been operational since September 2019. 

The airport features an iconic and highly functional terminal complex, designed with a phased masterplan that ensures sustainable integration with its urban surroundings. Flexible expansion options allow the terminal to grow and accommodate up to 100 mppa through adaptable configurations. 

Pascall+Watson were responsible for the entire terminal planning process for the project including the generation of the original terminal typology and subsequent detailed layouts for this 700,000m² facility on a greenfield site. The design focused on maintaining a compact airfield and walkable terminal building, despite the huge number of anticipated apron contact stands to be accommodated. Following a rigorous analysis and benchmarking process, a radial plan was identified as the most efficient layout. This solution significantly shortens passenger travel distances compared to linear terminals and provides exceptional operational flexibility. 

The airport is an exemplar in terms of its sustainable performance. Various low carbon strategies are integral to the scheme including an airtight external envelope to minimise leakage and infiltration, mechanical air movement systems linked to passenger occupancy and passive solar shading measures to minimise thermal discomfort.