One of the most convenient airports in the nation, Indianapolis International Airport is located less than 15 minutes via interstate highway from downtown Indianapolis. Indianapolis International is served by 11 airlines, with non-stop and direct flights to more than 100 destinations. Highly competitive airfares, easy access and an enviable no-delay status attract more than 8.5 million passengers each year. For more information, visit www.indianapolisairport.com.

The new $1 billion Indianapolis Airport terminal building recently opened as a high performance gateway for the 21st century. The Indianapolis Airport Authority's goals for the new airport demanded that the air-travel gateway for “The Crossroads of America” be modern, efficient and uniquely representative of the history and future of Indiana.

The result is a structure that is shaped to work with the wind and the sun, with full natural illumination. Designed by the internationally renowned firm of Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum, the terminal is meant to foster economic growth and make Indianapolis a clearly distinct travel destination. It reflects the economic and cultural history of the Indianapolis area and symbolizes its bright future, while applying newly advanced security considerations.

The heart of the new terminal is a circular space – reminiscent of downtown's Monument Circle – that serves the functions of security, retail and food service. This great room is a true civic space, with artwork and public events that will breathe the character and diversity of Indianapolis and the region.

The terminal design is dominated by its great, arched roof, which shelters the glass walls from the sun and collects the sun's illumination through its skylights. The arching promotes natural cooling by harnessing the airflow over its surfaces and the roof surface reflects energy, limits heat gain and channels water for collection.

Additional energy conservation is achieved in other ways, notably by its location. By building the terminal in the "midfield" between the main runways, taxiing is cut significantly, reducing passengers' time spent in aircraft, as well as fuel consumption, air pollution and noise.