Image courtesy of DFW Airport
Work has begun at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on a nearly $9 billion capital improvement plan, called "DFW Forward," which will transform terminals, add new facilities and amenities, grow the number of gates, and improve roadways and connectivity. The project is the airport’s largest capital investment since it opened 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 CEO. “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.”
Rebuilding Terminal C
American Airlines and other project partners joined the groundbreaking as the carrier anticipates the work that will 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rebuild and expand Terminal C. The approximately $3 billion project will transform the airport’s busiest and most outdated terminal into a modern and spacious experience by removing more than 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows and raising the roof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. All-new facilities will include shops and restaurants, lounge space, check-in areas, security checkpoints, and improved restrooms.
Expansions of both Terminal C and Terminal A are included in the project, adding 115,000 square feet and four gates to Terminal C, and 140,000 square feet and five gates to Terminal A. Both expansions will feature more travel amenities for customers, such as 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 operations to continue in other portions of the facility while focused areas undergo significant construction. Because the project will be done in several phases, the overall completion for the terminal is expected in 2030.
The adjacent south parking garage will be completely rebuilt with more spacing and modern parking-management technologies. The entrance to the garage is scheduled to close Sept. 14 to prepare for demolition later this year. The north and central garages will remain available.
More construction coming
DFW Forward, the airport’s overall capital program, includes more than 180 projects in various stages of planning, development and construction across the airport’s extensive facility.
Other notable projects include Terminal F, which will include 15 gates, a Skylink station, modernized systems and expanded concessions, as well as the International Parkway Modernization project that will transition access to Terminals A, B and C to right-hand exits. Construction also is underway on the new Electric Central Utility Plant that will help heat and cool DFW’s terminals with electricity supplied from 100 percent renewable resources.