La Réunion Airport Cools with Trade Winds

AIA Life Designers and Olivier Brabant completed a 13,200 square meter bioclimatic terminal at Roland Garros Airport in La Réunion, France on March 26, 2024. The new arrivals terminal relies on natural ventilation from trade winds to regulate temperature, minimizing the need for air conditioning. The building’s design incorporates a central canyon that draws in cool air and expels warm air, aided by 800 square meters of adjustable louvers.

While air conditioning is present, it’s limited to 7% of the terminal’s total area, focusing on offices and customs. The airport and GlobalABC, an alliance led by the UN Environment Programme, present the terminal as the world’s largest bioclimatic airport in a tropical environment.

Estimates suggest the design reduces perceived temperature by 4-5°C through evaporative cooling and limits solar radiation with vegetation and shading. The airport claims a 60% energy savings compared to the previous building, though calculations vary depending on what is being measured. Future assessments will determine the actual energy consumption following the opening.