Foster + Partners has unveiled its first major project in Angola, a massive 13,480-hectare masterplan surrounding a recently completed airport near the capital city of Luanda. Known as the Icolo e Bengo Aerotropolis, the development is located 40 kilometers southeast of Luanda and centers on the Dr Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport.

Furthermore, the developer envisions the project as a strategic “catalyst” for a future urban hub that will integrate business, education, and hospitality into the local landscape, ultimately aiming to strengthen Angola’s global presence and create economic opportunities for the local population.

Design

Furthermore, the design is organized into three distinct districts positioned to the north, west, and south of the airport, all of which are unified by a “verdant green loop”.Additionally, this 42-kilometer corridor will serve as the backbone for a modern transport network featuring public buses, trams, and cycle paths, while also providing recreational spaces filled with native plants. Also, to manage the local environment, these green spaces are designed to channel rainwater toward the Kwanza River, and the entire masterplan is oriented to maximize prevailing winds to ensure natural cooling across the development.

Each District in Icolo e Bengo to Serve a Specific Function

Lastly, each district within the aerotropolis serves a specific function to ensure a balanced urban ecosystem. The north district, planned as the project’s first phase, will focus on business and culture through a series of high-rise buildings that connect back to Luanda’s city center.

Also, in contrast, the west district is designed as a low-lying hub for research and innovation. The southern district is intended to be a “luxury destination”. It will be adjacent to Quisama National Park and will feature high-end villas, hotels, and sports facilities. Additionally, to power this vast infrastructure sustainably, the plan incorporates a three-square-kilometer solar farm located alongside the airport.

Project Factsheet

Project Name: Icolo e Bengo Aerotropolis.

Lead Architect: Foster + Partners.

Location: 40 kilometres southeast of Luanda, Angola.

Total Area: 13,480 hectares.

Central Anchor: Dr Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport.

Infrastructure and Sustainability

• The Green Loop: A 42-kilometre “verdant green loop” that unifies the three districts.
• Transportation: A network within the loop comprising public buses, trams, and dedicated cycle paths.
• Renewable Energy: Powered by green energy via 3 square kilometres of photovoltaic panels located near the airport.

Zoning and Districts

• North District: Focuses on business and culture; expected to feature high-rise buildings and connect to Luanda’s city centre.
• West District: Dedicated to low-lying research and innovation facilities.
• South District: A hospitality-driven “luxury destination” adjacent to Quisama National Park, featuring hotels, villas, and sports facilities.