India-based Bangalore International Airport (BIAL), operator of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, (BLR), has entered the metaverse space by launching the first phase of BLR Metaport.

Developed in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Polygon, BLR Metaport provides a three-dimensional (3D) virtual experience of the new Terminal 2 (T2) at the airport.

A 3D interface will enable customers to interact with the airport in various aspects, including checking into flights, navigating terminals, shopping, and connecting with other travellers.

BLR Airport’s T2 is said to be one of the first terminals across the world that can be experienced on the metaverse.

The travellers and the public can ‘virtually tour and navigate the new state-of-the-art terminal, using their smart devices.’

The BLR Metaport is a result of the Joint Innovation Centre (JIC), which was launched by BIAL, AWS, and Intel in April.

JIC will support the development and adoption of digital solutions in aviation. It will help BIAL utilise emerging technologies to develop new business models and passenger experiences.

BIAL chief strategy and development officer Satyaki Raghunath said: “We are very excited that BIAL is entering into the new world of metaverse through the BLR Metaport.

“This is our first foray into the world of Web3 and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and we aim to delight travellers with a unique, immersive, and virtual experience.

“We believe that it is important to connect with a new generation of our global audience through the metaverse.”

Last month, the airport’s T2, which was constructed with an investment of about $612m (Rs50bn), was opened.