Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has started major work on its nearly $9 billion capital improvement plan – ‘DFW Forward’ – which will transform terminals, add new facilities and amenities, grow the number of gates, improve roadways and connectivity, enhance the airfield and mark the airport’s largest capital investment since opening in 1974.
“After 50 years of growth, innovation and service to our community, a new era is now beginning at DFW,” said Sean Donohue, Chief Executive Officer, DFW. “The incredible upgrades and expansions we have planned across the airport are going to reimagine the customer experience in many ways and provide the needed framework to support more historic growth in air travel to and from North Texas. As we grow closer to serving 100 million passengers each year, it’s time for DFW to enhance our remaining legacy terminal and imagine brand-new ones. The work in front of us is exciting, but it is going to be complex, challenging and impactful as we continue to operate one of the world’s busiest airports.”
American Airlines and other project partners joined DFW to celebrate the work to completely rebuild and expand Terminal C. The approximately $3 billion project will transform the airport’s busiest and most outdated terminal into a modern and spacious experience by removing more than 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows and raising the roof throughout. Customers will also be able to enjoy the renewed experience with all-new facilities, including shops and restaurants, lounge space, check-in areas, security checkpoints and improved restrooms.
Also included in the project, and taking place concurrently with the first phase of Terminal C’s reconstruction, are double-loaded pier expansions of both Terminal C and Terminal A. The expansions will add 115,000 square feet and four gates to Terminal C and 140,000 square feet and five gates to Terminal A. In addition to added capacity to accommodate growth, both expansions will feature more travel amenities for customers, including new restaurant and retail options, seating areas and restrooms.
Following the first phase and expansion, the remainder of the Terminal C concourse will be demolished and rebuilt in two additional phases. This work will allow the terminal to continue flight operations in other portions of the facility while focused areas undergo significant construction. Because the project will be done in several phases, the overall completion of the terminal is expected in 2030.
“American is excited to officially mark the start of construction to modernise and expand DFW,” said Amanda Zhang, Vice President of Airport Affairs and Facilities, American Airlines. “No different than the synergy between American and DFW that’s fuelled growth for 50 years, the new Capital Improvement Program will continue to set North Texas apart in the future as a connection factory for travellers around the world. We look forward to bringing an innovative and efficient experience to life over the next decade, and we’re excited that it’s all starting with the reimagining of Terminal C.”
Hear more from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Paul Puopolo, Executive Vice President of Innovation, DFW, will deliver an FTE exclusive presentation titled ‘DFW International Airport has established a reputation for embracing innovation and celebrates its 50-year anniversary in 2024, so what are its plans for the next 50 years and does it believe it needs to embrace radical transformation or steady evolution?’
Meanwhile, Mike Youngs, Vice President Information Technology, DFW, is participating in two sessions – the ‘Symposium on establishing and leveraging Private Networks at the airport’ and a session titled ‘Upgrading from traditional FIDS and legacy digital signage? Why content strategy is vital when it’s time to invest in a digital ecosystem’.
Explore the full FTE Global 2024 schedule at a glance here >>
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