At least six groups of companies applied for prequalification by 13 July for the PCM services contract and have started making technical presentations to the client. The applicants are US' Bechtel with the local Dar al-Riyadh, Beirut-based Dar al-Handasah (Shair & Partners)and Turner Construction International, Parsons Brinckerhoff, Louis Berger and Hill International, all of the US. PCA is expected to prepare a shortlist of prequalifiers, which will be invited to submit bids in mid-September.

The scope of works on the five-year contract will include drawing up a comprehensive 30-year development masterplan aimed at serving the requirements of the airport, overseeing the construction of a new terminal and support services building, modifications to the existing South and North terminals and upgrades to the existing runway and airfield systems to accommodate AirbusA380aircraft and the airport operations programme.

The South terminal is home to Saudi Arabian Airlines, while the North terminal serves other airlines. NACOof the Netherlands is carrying out a review of the original airport masterplan, which is due to be completed soon.

As part of its early works programme, PCA has invited bids by 17 September for a contract to upgrade and renovate the existing runway. Prequalifiers include a team of Turkey's TAV Gulfwith the local Bugshan, South Korea's Samwhan Corporation, a Greek contractor identified as PA Teknik and Almabani General Contractors, Saudi Binladin Groupand Saudi Oger, all local. The design and build contract involves upgrades to the airfield facilities, airfield pavement and lighting, fuel network systems and the stormwater drainage network. Contractors will submit bids along with equipment manufacturers.

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