Otis Transforms Incheon International Airport With Groundbreaking Moving Walk Technology

Published on December 6, 2025

Incheon International Airport in South Korea recently won accolades for its partnership with Otis Worldwide Corporation. This collaboration received the Project of the Year award from Elevator World Magazine in the Moving Walks category. This recognition highlights Otis’ significant contributions to the airport’s ongoing expansion, especially in the newly extended Terminal 2, which is built to accommodate the increasing number of international travelers at Incheon each year.

The award-winning project emphasizes the important role Otis plays in improving passenger movement at one of the busiest airports in the world. As Incheon aims to handle 106 million passengers annually, Otis’s installation of 172 elevators, escalators, and moving walks is essential for ensuring that travelers can move efficiently and safely throughout the airport’s large complex.

An Innovative Solution for Increased Capacity

The Incheon International Airport expansion project runs from 2021 to 2024 and includes 80 escalators, 20 elevators, and 72 moving walks installed across the terminal. Notably, it features the longest continuous moving walks in Asia, which span up to 136 meters. These innovative moving walks use a dual-motor system, offering passengers a smooth, synchronized ride and helping to shape the future of travel at major transport hubs.

The Otis teams worked hard to meet the complex demands of the airport’s expansion and construction timelines. They ensured the project was completed efficiently, despite the busy airport environment. Due to the project’s size and complexity, effective project management and clear communication with all stakeholders were vital to its success. The moving walks underwent a thorough quality control process. This included assembling the longest walk at Otis’ factory and conducting extensive testing before and after installation on-site.

Addressing Passenger Needs at Incheon International Airport

Since opening in 2001, Incheon International Airport has become a leading aviation hub worldwide. With millions of passengers traveling through each year, the airport aims to improve the overall travel experience. It ensures that visitors of all ages and abilities have access to safe, efficient, and comfortable transportation within the airport. Otis has played a key role in these efforts, having already installed over 650 elevators, escalators, and moving walks at the airport. This project further strengthens the airport’s ability to serve domestic and international travelers, providing crucial infrastructure to support its ongoing growth.

As the airport continues to increase its passenger and cargo capacity, the need for innovative and reliable transport solutions, like those from Otis, becomes obvious. The new moving walks are designed to improve passenger flow, reduce congestion, and enhance connectivity between terminals.

Technology and Sustainability in Airport Infrastructure

Otis Worldwide’s work at Incheon International Airport shows how technology can not only improve passenger safety and efficiency but also support sustainability in major infrastructure projects. The installation of energy-efficient elevators and escalators aligns with the global trend toward sustainable development, especially in sectors like transportation that significantly impact energy use and carbon emissions.

By using advanced engineering and innovative systems, Otis has helped Incheon International Airport maintain its reputation as an eco-conscious and world-class travel hub. The introduction of dual-motor technology and continuous moving walks is just one example of the cutting-edge solutions Otis offers to airports striving to stay ahead.

A Legacy of Excellence at Incheon International Airport

The recognition of Otis’ work at Incheon International Airport underscores the company’s legacy of delivering reliable and innovative solutions for aviation and infrastructure. The award-winning project reflects Otis’ long-term commitment to the airport, having provided a significant amount of infrastructure over the years. This new honor adds to Otis’ growing list of achievements in delivering high-quality transportation solutions to airports and urban environments globally.

As the airport continues to expand, the ongoing partnership with Otis Worldwide guarantees that Incheon will have the necessary resources to face future challenges, helping to maintain its status as a leading global aviation hub.

Conclusion: Advancing the Future of Travel with Otis Worldwide

Otis Worldwide Corporation’s role in the Incheon International Airport expansion goes beyond just installing elevators and moving walks. It symbolizes how innovation and collaboration can enhance the global tourism and travel experience. With Otis’ award-winning efforts at the airport, the company has established itself as a leader in the elevator and escalator industry, providing solutions that meet current needs and prepare airports for the future.