Yogyakarta International Airport ETFE Roof System
- Application: Airport Terminal Canopy
- Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Membrane Material:ETFE Air Cushion System
- Market Sector : Transportation Infrastructure
- Building Function: International Airport Terminal
- Roof Area: 14,314 m²
- Completion: 2017
Project Overview
The ETFE roof system at Yogyakarta International Airport was designed to create a bright, weather-protected arrival experience while reflecting Indonesia’s cultural identity. Covering approximately 14,314 m², the lightweight roof combines large-span engineering with high daylight transmission, allowing passengers to enjoy an open terminal environment without excessive solar heat gain.
Compared with conventional steel-and-glass roofs, the ETFE cushion system significantly reduces structural weight while minimizing long-term maintenance requirements. The project demonstrates how modern membrane architecture can improve passenger comfort, architectural identity, and operational efficiency for transportation infrastructure.
ETFE Roof Design for Airport Terminals
The roof consists of 84 double-layer ETFE air cushions, arranged into 21 independent cushion groups. Each group is connected to a dedicated pneumatic inflation system, ensuring stable internal pressure and long-term structural performance.
The membrane specification includes:
- Bottom layer: 250 μm transparent ETFE film
- Top layer: 250 μm ETFE film with 63% silver frit pattern
- High daylight transmission with controlled solar shading
- Lightweight pneumatic cushion system
- Excellent resistance to UV radiation and tropical weather
The silver frit pattern reduces direct solar radiation while maintaining a bright interior environment, helping improve passenger comfort throughout the terminal.
Architecture Inspired by Indonesian Culture
One of the project’s defining features is its roof geometry inspired by the traditional Kawung pattern, one of Indonesia’s most recognizable cultural motifs.
The symmetrical arrangement of the ETFE cushions creates a distinctive roof visible from both the ground and the air, transforming the terminal canopy into an architectural landmark rather than simply a functional shelter.
This project illustrates how membrane architecture can combine engineering performance with local cultural expression.
Integrated Daylight and LED Lighting Design
Each skylight module incorporates three ETFE cushions designed with sufficient roof slope to ensure efficient rainwater drainage and prevent standing water.
Integrated LED lighting is installed beneath the cushions, allowing the terminal roof to become a dynamic illuminated feature after sunset. The programmable lighting system can display different colors for festivals, public events, or airport branding, creating a memorable arrival experience while enhancing nighttime visibility.
Why ETFE Was Selected for This Airport
For large airport terminals, ETFE offers several engineering advantages over traditional roofing systems:
- Lightweight construction reduces steel consumption
- High natural daylight transmission lowers daytime lighting demand
- Excellent corrosion and UV resistance for tropical climates
- Self-cleaning surface minimizes maintenance
- Large-span capability with fewer supporting columns
- Long service life with reliable pneumatic performance
Related Transportation Projects
Explore more membrane roofing solutions for transportation infrastructure:
- Guangzhou Baiyun Railway Station — Large-span PTFE roof for one of China’s major railway terminals.
- Guangzhou South Railway Station — Membrane canopy improving passenger circulation and weather protection.
- Guigang High-Speed Railway Station Square — Public transportation plaza designed for high pedestrian traffic.
Submit Your Project Information Today
Receive professional engineering feedback and solution recommendations from the SkyTensile team.
