DALLAS — Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) celebrated the beginning of major work on its nearly $9 billion capital improvement plan called “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, DFW’s Chief Executive Officer. “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.”
“I am thrilled about the upcoming construction of a reimagined Terminal C at DFW Airport,” said Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson. “As an international city, Dallas flourishes through the global relationships made possible by the third-busiest airport in the world. This monumental expansion will strengthen one of Dallas’ greatest assets, facilitating more dynamic connections with our nation and the world.”
“As DFW Airport embarks on this latest transformation, we are excited to see how these advancements will further enhance the travel experience and strengthen our connection to the world as the DFW Metroplex continues to rapidly grow,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “The reimaging of Terminal C is a significant step forward in ensuring that DFW Airport maintains its status as a top aviation hub. We’re committed to supporting this growth and look forward to the new opportunities and benefits it will bring to travelers and the region.”
Rebuilding Terminal C
American Airlines and other project partners are looking forward to completely rebuilding and expanding Terminal C. The approximately $3 billion project will transform the airport’s busiest and most outdated terminal into a modern and spacious experience by removing more than 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows and raising the roof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, a news release.
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 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 over time, the overall completion of the terminal is expected in 2030.
In strategic coordination with Terminal C’s first construction phase, the adjacent south parking garage will be completely rebuilt with more parking with modern parking management technologies to accommodate growth from the terminal’s expansion. The entrance to the garage is scheduled to close Sept. 14 to prepare for demolition later this year. The north and central garage will remain available. Customers are encouraged to book parking online ahead of travel to ensure the best rates and check live availability of parking garages and lots before or upon arrival.
Source: DFW Airport
