A novel configuration of a three-phase internal loop airlift reactor is proposed. The draft is divided in two sections: (top) gas-liquid contact section; (bottom) liquid-solid contact section. Solids particles are fluidized in the bottom section by liquid circulation. The main advantage compared with classic airlift or three-phase fluidized bed is the reduced stress on particles as interference with bubbles is prevented. Experiments with silica sand (325 mu m diameter) were carried out to characterise the hydrodynamics of the airlift. The influence of superficial gas velocity, overall solids hold-up and sparger height were assessed. A theoretical analysis was proposed to derive simple design criteria.