Cable-stayed structures for airports

Innovative structural systems for long-span airport terminals' roofs

Cable-stayed roof systems provide an efficient and elegant solution for the large spans and architectural ambitions typical of modern airport terminals. VSL’s expertise in stay cables and post-tensioning has enabled the realization of complex and iconic airport roof structures.

Why cable-stayed roofs for airport terminals

Airport terminals demand expansive, column-free spaces to optimize passenger flow and operational efficiency. Cable-stayed roof systems meet these needs by enabling long-span structures with reduced material use and enhanced architectural expression.

Cable-stayed systems enable large roof spans while significantly reducing the number of internal columns, improving circulation and space utilization within terminal halls.

The use of stay cables allows for slender, visually unobstructed structures that support ambitious architectural designs and enhance passenger experience.

By transferring forces through tensioned cables, these systems minimize the overall structural mass while maintaining high performance and durability.

Cable-stayed roofs can be erected using prefabricated elements and controlled lifting operations, reducing on-site construction time and interface constraints.

Stay cables can be equipped with load-cell-based monitoring that provides continuous structural data, supporting predictive maintenance and long-term asset management.

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VSL’s specialized services

VSL offers a comprehensive solution for cable-stayed roof structures in airport environments, combining design support, material supply, installation, and monitoring.

Engineering and design collaboration from early phases

Supply of stay cable and post-tensioning systems

Installation supervision and equipment provision

In-house developed cable-stay monitoring systems

Adapted logistics and workforce deployment for large-scale, multi-front projects

Why Choose VSL for Stay Cable Services?

Cable-stayed roof structure of Kuwait International Airport under construction

  • Proven innovation

    VSL adapts technologies from bridge engineering for use in airport terminals—such as the first-ever use of segmental post-tensioned arches for a terminal roof.

  • Global delivery capacity

    Multidisciplinary teams can operate across dozens of simultaneous work fronts, even in challenging environments.

  • Technical excellence

    All systems are developed and tested to meet the highest international standards, with full LEED and sustainability integration possible.

  • Integrated monitoring

    Load-cell-based systems enable real-time monitoring of stay cables for long-term performance assurance.

FAQs about Cable-Stayed Airport Roofs

These are some of the most common questions we receive. Got another one? Reach out to us!

They serve as tension elements to stabilize cantilevered or suspended roof structures, reducing the need for internal columns.

Yes. VSL integrates monitoring systems using load-cell sensors to track the performance of stay cables over the life of the structure.

Yes. VSL solutions can also be adapted for the strengthening or extension of existing terminal roofs.

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Looking to design or build a long-span airport terminal roof?

Contact VSL to benefit from our international experience in cable-stayed systems for aviation infrastructure.