Tailored Queue Management at KKIA: Introducing the 175mm Magnetic Base

King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is one of the busiest airports in the region, serving over 28 million passengers annually. As a key hub in the GCC, KKIA handles a high volume of domestic and international travellers, many of whom travel with large quantities of luggage—particularly during Hajj and peak travel seasons.

The Challenge

King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) needed a barrier solution that could address the practical demands of a busy airport environment without compromising on accessibility or visual appeal. The airport’s existing queue management systems were creating two key issues at high-traffic areas like check-in and bag drop zones:
• Taller base profiles were frequently struck by passenger trolleys, causing premature wear and operational disruption.
• Larger base diameters restricted available walking space, occasionally impeding the flow of both passengers and luggage.

KKIA required a solution that offered the dependability of a fixed barrier with the versatility of a portable system—all within a sleeker, more space-efficient footprint.

The Journey

Recognising these operational challenges, KKIA engaged Tensator® to develop a tailored solution as part of a wider project to enhance passenger flow and improve queue control across the terminal. Our teams collaborated closely from the outset—mapping footfall patterns, reviewing space constraints, and analysing how traditional base designs were impacting day-to-day operations.

This insight led to the creation of a smaller, 175mm magnetic base—engineered to reduce surface obstruction while maintaining barrier stability and accessibility. Multiple iterations were tested and refined with KKIA’s input to ensure the final product met their exacting standards.

Throughout the development, Tensator® provided consistent support and communication, resulting in a fully customised solution that is now installed across key areas of the airport, ready to support smoother and more efficient passenger movement.

The Solution

In response to KKIA’s request, Tensator® developed a bespoke 175mm Magnetic Base—now the smallest diameter base in our Tensabarrier® range.

This compact base maintains the core stability benefits of a magnetic system, while reducing the diameter from the standard 220mm to just 175mm (6.89″). Key features include:

• A bevelled, low-profile edge for improved accessibility and reduced interference with trolleys.
• A smaller footprint, allowing for better space optimisation in high-traffic zones.
• A magnetic connection that ensures secure positioning while allowing easy reconfiguration of queue layouts when needed.

This innovation was rolled out as part of a large-scale Tensabarrier® installation across multiple areas of the airport, including:

• Bag drop and check-in zones: Long rows of barriers manage queues efficiently during peak hours.
• Reception and circulation areas: Branded webbing and post-top signage improve wayfinding and reinforce KKIA’s visual identity.
• Wall-mounted Tensabarrier® units: Installed with a silver finish to blend with existing interiors for discrete, space-saving control in narrow corridors.

The installation also included a mix of standard Tensabarriers with Universal Bases and customised options, tailored to different zones based on footfall, space, and operational need.

The Results

The new 175mm magnetic base provided KKIA with an advanced queue management tool that improves operational efficiency without compromising on style or safety. While more complex to manufacture and install, the compact base has:

• Minimized obstruction for passengers with trolleys or mobility needs.
• Improved visual consistency and cleanliness in terminal spaces.
• Delivered a solution aligned with KKIA’s vision for innovation and passenger-first design.

The successful outcome of this project has helped set a new standard for Tensabarrier® installations in the region and has generated interest from other key airports.

Summary

KKIA’s desire for a smarter, safer, and more efficient queuing solution led to the creation of Tensator’s most compact magnetic base to date. This collaboration not only addressed the airport’s unique challenges but also reinforced Tensator’s position as a flexible, solution-led partner in the aviation sector.

Looking for a tailored solution? Contact us today to discover how our bespoke designs can transform your space.