Above: the new Terminal B at Punta Cana International Airport

By Alexander Britell

Punta Cana International Airport has officially begun operations at its new, second independent terminal.

The new terminal began operations on Saturday, set to accommodate 6,500 passengers daily and with a capacity of more than 2 million passengers each year.

“From conception to development, the new structure has been a labor of love and great anticipation for Grupo Puntacana and our valued guests of Puntacana Resort & Club,” said Frank Ranieri, co-founder of Grupo Puntacana. “Our goals are to expand our air capacity and passenger ease to the region, while our mission remains deeply rooted in sustainability and energy savings throughout the facility.”

The 33,000-square-metre structure has two passenger levels and a third mezzanine for offices, lit by LED lights.

The passengner departure area has 50 check-in counters, an air-conditioned concourse with seven jet bridges, among other features.

The terminal itself has a food court, a VIP lounge, duty-free shopping, a champagne bar and even a kids’ playground.