Dallas-Fort Worth Airport Announces Plans for Largest Overhaul in Airport’s History

by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 3:40 PM ET, Wed September 4, 2024

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is about to undergo a $9 billion renovation that’s meant to transform terminals, add new facilities and amenities and increase the number of gates at the airport.

The sweeping project, which has been dubbed “DFW Forward,” is the largest capital investment since the Dallas-Fort Worth airport opened in 1974 and will also improve roadways around the airport and enhance the airfield.

“A new era is now beginning at DFW,” Sean Donohue, DFW’s CEO, said in a statement. “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.”

The newly announced project will completely reimagine Terminal C at DFW, which is the world’s third-busiest airport overall, serving nearly 100 million passengers each year.

Here’s what the project will entail.

Dallas-Fort Worth Airport Transformation

Rebuilding Terminal C

About $3 billion will be used transform the airport’s busiest and most outdated terminal, turning it into “a modern and spacious experience.”

This effort will include removing more than 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows and raising the roof throughout the space. The terminal will also have 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 increasing capacity to allow for growth, both expansions will include new travel amenities for customers, such as new restaurant and retail options, seating areas and restrooms.

Phase 2

Once the first phase and expansion of Terminal C is wrapped-up, 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.

Given that the project is being undertaken in several phases over time, overall completion of the terminal is not expected in 2030.

Parking structure upgrades

At the same time Terminal C’s first construction phase is being undertaken, the airport’s adjacent south parking garage will be completely rebuilt with more parking and modern parking management technologies. This element of the project is also meant to accommodate growth from the terminal’s expansion.

The entrance to this particular garage is scheduled to close Sept. 14 to prepare for demolition later this year. The airport’s north and central garage will remain available.