Home » AIRLINE NEWS » China’s Yantai, France’s Marseille, Japan’s Kansai, and the United States’ Portland Vie for 2025’s Most Beautiful Airport Terminal at the Prix Versailles Award
Friday, July 25, 2025
The world of aviation is evolving rapidly, and airports are no longer just hubs for travel – they are becoming architectural landmarks that define the culture and innovation of their respective cities. As travelers increasingly seek comfort, efficiency, and beauty in their airport experiences, a select group of terminals has stood out for their design, functionality, and environmental sustainability. In 2025, the prestigious Prix Versailles Award for airport terminals will recognize some of the most remarkable airport buildings in the world. These nominees are redefining the passenger experience through cutting-edge architecture and thoughtful design, blending modern technology with local cultural influences. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most beautiful and innovative airport terminals nominated for this year’s award.
Introduction: Transforming the Airport Experience
Airports are no longer just places to catch a flight; they have become vital spaces that reflect the identity of their regions, contribute to sustainable urban design, and enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers each year. In 2025, six remarkable terminals from across the globe have been nominated for the Prix Versailles, an award recognizing outstanding architecture and interior design in airports. These terminals are known not only for their beauty but also for their commitment to enhancing the environment, promoting local culture, and offering seamless connectivity to international destinations.
The Prix Versailles, awarded by UNESCO, judges each terminal on various criteria, including design, efficiency, and its reflection of the local culture and identity. This year’s nominees represent a broad spectrum of architectural styles and technological innovations, from sustainable designs that minimize environmental impact to futuristic buildings that use advanced materials and smart technologies. For travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike, these terminals offer a glimpse into the future of air travel infrastructure, where functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal harmoniously coexist.
Yantai Penglai International Airport (YNT/ZSYT), China
Opened in 2015, Yantai Penglai International Airport serves as a vital transportation hub in Shandong Province, China. Its Terminal 2, which opened in 2023, has been nominated for the Prix Versailles for its unique design that celebrates the natural beauty of the coastal city of Yantai. Spanning 167,000 square meters, the terminal’s design is inspired by the nearby Kunyu Mountain, creating a striking visual connection between the airport and the landscape. The E-shaped terminal allows for an abundance of natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the passenger experience with open spaces and a relaxed atmosphere.
The terminal’s sustainable design minimizes its environmental footprint, while its multi-level atrium facilitates smooth passenger movement. It includes a direct railway connection, nine flexible boarding gates, and premium lounges equipped with showers, gourmet dining, and business zones. Yantai Penglai International’s Terminal 2 is an exemplary model of modern airport design, blending natural elements with advanced technology to deliver a world-class experience for travelers.
Marseille Provence Airport, Terminal 1 (MRS/LFML), France
Marseille Provence Airport, located in the vibrant southern region of France, unveiled its new Terminal 1 in 2024, offering a modernized travel experience that reflects the city’s rich maritime heritage. The terminal’s heart-shaped design maximizes space while minimizing the footprint on the surrounding environment. Inspired by the boat houses of Marseille’s Old Port, the terminal’s wood and glass facades create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, while natural light flows freely into the building.
One of the most notable features of Terminal 1 is its use of sustainable materials. The terminal is constructed with 70% recycled steel and wood, reducing the environmental impact of the building process. Inside, travelers can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and a luxurious lounge for premium passengers. With its eco-friendly design and seamless integration into the city’s cultural fabric, Marseille Provence Airport’s Terminal 1 stands as a model of sustainable architecture in the aviation industry.
Roland Garros Airport, Arrivals Terminal (RUN/FMEE), Réunion Island
Located on the tropical island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean, Roland Garros Airport serves as the gateway to this French overseas department. The airport’s new arrivals terminal, which spans 13,000 square meters, was designed with sustainability in mind. The bioclimatic structure utilizes natural sunlight and ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning and creating a comfortable environment for passengers.
In addition to its environmental considerations, the terminal’s design incorporates local materials and craftsmanship, with 91% of the work on the building being carried out by local businesses. The terminal is surrounded by greenery, and automatic louvers adjust to the angle of the sun, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere throughout the day. Roland Garros Airport’s arrivals terminal exemplifies how airport design can integrate local culture and environmental sustainability while providing a positive first impression for visitors arriving in Réunion.
Kansai International Airport, Terminal 1 (KIX/RJBB), Japan
Kansai International Airport, located on an artificial island off the coast of Osaka, is one of Japan’s busiest and most iconic airports. Terminal 1, originally built in the 1990s, recently underwent a significant expansion, completing 25% more space in time for the 2025 World Expo. The terminal’s design has been updated to reflect the latest in Japanese architectural aesthetics, incorporating local materials and a streamlined, efficient layout.
The expansion includes new amenities such as a smart queue management system, which enhances the airport’s operational efficiency and passenger flow. Kansai Airport’s Terminal 1 is a striking blend of cutting-edge design and traditional Japanese influences, offering passengers a uniquely modern yet culturally resonant experience. The terminal’s extensive renovations and modern updates place it among the top contenders for the Prix Versailles in 2025.
Portland International Airport (PDX/KPDX), United States
Portland International Airport is known for its eco-friendly approach and its integration with the city’s natural landscape. The airport’s newly renovated main terminal, which opened in 2024, draws inspiration from Oregon’s rich forest ecosystems, creating an immersive experience that brings the outdoors inside. Designed with sustainability at its core, the terminal features biophilic elements, including extensive views of forested areas and ample natural light.
The building materials used in the terminal are sourced from within a 500-kilometer radius, supporting local businesses and reducing the carbon footprint. The design also emphasizes efficiency, ensuring a smooth flow of passengers while maintaining high environmental standards. Portland International’s main terminal combines innovative design, sustainability, and local charm, making it a leading contender for the Prix Versailles award in 2025.
San Francisco International Airport, Terminal 1 (SFO/KSFO), United States
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. Terminal 1, which underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2024, has been nominated for the Prix Versailles for its striking design and sustainable features. The terminal includes 25 new boarding gates and emphasizes energy efficiency, with a design that reduces carbon emissions by 79% and energy usage by 59%.
A standout feature of Terminal 1 is its commitment to art and culture, exemplified by the SFO Museum, the world’s only accredited museum inside an airport terminal. The terminal’s design also pays tribute to the LGBTQ+ community, with elements that honor Harvey Milk’s legacy of inclusivity. With its blend of modern design, sustainability, and cultural significance, San Francisco International’s Terminal 1 is a prime example of how airports can function as cultural landmarks.
Conclusion: The Future of Airport Design
The six airport terminals nominated for the Prix Versailles in 2025 represent a diverse array of designs, each reflecting the unique cultural identity and architectural vision of their locations. From the natural beauty of Yantai’s coastal landscapes to the sustainable innovation of Portland and San Francisco, these terminals set a new standard for what airports can be. As travel continues to evolve, these remarkable terminals remind us that airports are more than just transit points—they are gateways to new worlds and experiences. The winners of the Prix Versailles will no doubt inspire future airport designs and redefine the way we think about air travel infrastructure.
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