project description

The Imam Hussein Holy Shrine Authority planned a new international airport to support Iraq’s strategy to “open up” and improve regional connectivity. Located between Karbala, Najaf, and Al Hillah, the airport was designed as a gateway for pilgrims visiting the holy shrines of Karbala and Najaf, while also supporting tourism, traffic growth, and the development of a new economic hub. The development program included two runways, three terminal buildings, and a 62-metre air traffic control tower.

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Within this context, Leadin Aviation Consulting participated in the airside design and engineering scope, working with Prointec as part of the project management team. The assignment focused on airfield design during the conceptual and early engineering phases, delivering airside construction design for Phases 1 and 2, covering disciplines such as geometric layout, airfield ground lighting, markings, pavements, drainage, and levelling. During the project, an optimization of the airfield phasing was requested to better align construction sequencing with expected demand and reduce overall costs. The revised phasing was accepted by the client.

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The airside design and engineering services provided an optimized foundation for the phased development of Kerbala International Airport, ensuring technical robustness, cost efficiency, and alignment between infrastructure delivery and long-term traffic demand.