DFW airport is getting a major facelift. They just kicked off a major $9 billion transformation and expansion project. It’s the largest capital investment in DFW airport since it opened in 1974, and includes renovating their busiest and most outdated Terminal, C, and adding a new Terminal F.
Millions of travelers pass through Terminal C every year. Just this weekend airport officials expected 1.4 million travelers for the Labor Day holiday, with the majority passing through C. In the coming years, they expect 100 million annually.
Major growth in air travel expected at DFW
“When you look at the economic success of this region and some of the projections for the region over the next 50 years, we have to get ahead of that growth,” says Sean Donohue, the CEO of DFW Airport. “We are making the investments needed today so that our facilities are ready for the future.”
Of that $9 billion, $3 billion is for Terminal C. They will gut and modernize the terminal, and add 4 new gates to it. They will also add 5 new gates to Terminal A. DFW has already overhauled terminals A and E.
Construction Begins to Renovate Terminal C
Officials held a ceremony at the airport last week to mark the official start of Terminal C construction. During the pandemic DFW built gates C35 – C39, and say Terminal C will look similar.
They will revamp Terminal C in 6 gate intervals, to minimize and limit disruptions to travelers. Ticket counters and security checkpoints at C30 are now closed for construction.
The new C will give more space, more light, and more opportunities for concessionaires. Plans include removing over 400 view-blocking columns, adding new windows and raising the roof.
It will have all-new facilities, shops and restaurants, lounge space, check-in areas, security checkpoints and better restrooms. Completion is expected in 2030.
The adjacent south parking garage will also be completely rebuilt. It will close Sep 14 for demolition soon after. The north and central garages will stay open. Travelers are encouraged to book parking online, and check live availability before arriving.
DFW will add a new Terminal F
When the idea of a new Terminal F first began, it was put on hold due to challenges stemming from the pandemic. Plans are now moving forward again, which include modernized systems and expanded concessions.
Terminal F will be built on the southwest side of the airport, with 15 gates and a new SkyLink station to connect it to the rest of the airport. It won’t share the same crescent-shape of the other 5 terminals either, but will be rectangular, with gates on both sides.
Other projects in works
DFW’s transformation and expansion doesn’t stop at Terminal C or a new Terminal F. Over 180 projects are in various stages of planning and construction across the vast airfield.
An International Parkway Modernization project will transition access to Terminals A, B and C to right-hand exits. A new Electric Central Utility Plant will heat and cool DFW’s terminals with electricity from 100% renewable resources. A new southside east-west roadway will connect Rental Car Drive to State Highway 360. Two new fire stations are also being built.
New facilities are also planned to double the number of cargo aircraft able to park, to support increasing demand. The airport’s third end-around taxiway will also be improved for the safety and efficiency of aircraft movements.
Stay informed and prepared if you’re driving to/from DFW airport
The DFW App and website will provide real-time information on these projects and road closures to help travelers plan accordingly. You can also sign up for construction updates via email.
