OREANDA-NEWS. September 27, 2012. Basel Aero, the largest airport operator in the south of Russia, the Administration of Krasnodar Region and Krasnodar City Administration have signed an investment agreement for the development of Krasnodar airport as a regional transfer hub. Basel Aero is part of Basic Element, one of the largest diversified industrial groups in Russia.

In 2012-2013, a terminal for international airlines will be constructed with a capacity of 400 passengers per hour. 2014-2016 will see the development of the main terminal building for domestic flights with a capacity of 2,000 passengers per hour, as well as service facilities and technical area. Basel Aero's total investment into the project amounts to more than RUB 7 billion (over USD 230 million).

Alexander Tkachev, Krasnodar region Governor, commented on the agreement: "The construction of the new Krasnodar airport will be a milestone in the development of the region's aviation industry. The construction of modern terminals for international and domestic flights is vital for enabling the continued growth of Krasnodar's economy. The transfer of high-level guests and delegations arriving in the Krasnodar region is especially important on the eve of the Winter Olympics in Sochi 2014. The new airport will be one of the best in Russia thanks to this high-quality project and Basel Aero's significant investment."

Leonid Sergeev, CEO of Basel Aero said that: "We are grateful to the administrations of Krasnodar region and city for their support in the preparation and implementation of this large investment project. The construction of new infrastructure and terminals in Krasnodar will transform the airport into a strong regional hub. The airport will be built with the assistance of our expert partners from Changi Airports International in accordance with the best international standards. This project is an important step in the development of Basel Aero's strategy, which aims to introduce best international practices, deliver world class quality standards and increase the capitalization of assets."