Things are getting greener in Kansas. Recently, the Wichita Mid-Continental Airport announced its plans for a new $150 million terminal with innovative ideas to improve its environmental edge.
The airport plans to add miniature wind turbines similar to the ones installed at Boston Logan International Airport earlier this year. The small turbines will be placed on the brand new, four-level, 1,600-spot parking garage, and will generate enough power to provide light for all levels. The turbines will need to be built specially so that their noise does not disrupt travelers using the garage or interfere with radio controls for pilots and air traffic controllers.
With the amount of wind that Wichita receives, the airport could save up to 50 percent in utility bills.
Other green initiatives on the horizon include high-performance insulation systems in walls and roofs, low-solar heat-gain glazing systems, high performance HVAC systems, groundwater heat for snow, melt systems in the sidewalks, and lighting controls that take advantage of daylight through glass ceilings and walls.
The airport is also working toward obtaining a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Certification from the US Green Building Council.
The new terminal will include 12 gates and 273,000 square feet of space, and is set to open in 2013.
For more on eco-travel, visit the green travel section of our blog.
© Cheapflights Ltd Andrea Mooney
