Kansai Airports

Kansai Airport's Fight Against Sinking

Kansai Airport’s Fight Against Sinking: Engineering Solutions and Future Outlook

Anthony Lane

Discover the incredible story of Japan’s Kansai International Airport, a modern marvel built on a man-made island that's been sinking since it opened. This article explores the immense geotechnical challenge of building on a soft clay seabed and details the ingenious engineering solutions—from millions of sand drains to a revolutionary jack-up system with 900 hydraulic legs—that keep the airport operational. Learn how KIX continues to adapt and thrive, offering powerful lessons in resilience and engineering.