Major Airport Developments for 2016

In 2016, airline ancillary revenues are expected to reach $67.4 billion, according to IdeaWorks Company and Car Trawler, a number that has tripled in the past six years.

Read more: Airline Ancillary Revenue has Tripled Over the Last Six Years

While travellers are certainly funding this increase through items like baggage fees and ticket change charges, part of the growth is also fueled by significant increases in passenger loads. According to a recent press release from the National Travel and Tourism Offices, American, U.S. travel to international destinations has increased by seven per cent (January through September) over 2015.

What’s good for the airlines most certainly seems to be good for the airports from which they’re flying. Airports from across North America—and even globally—are announcing major capital improvement programs, terminal extensions and renovations and other renovations that could transform the flying experience.

A few recent airport announcements, include:

Kona International Airport at Keahole
On the island of Hawaii, Kona International Airport has announced the opening of a new Federal Inspection Service facility. 

“The convenience of having a new customs facility in Kona is a huge achievement for our tourism industry and makes Hawaii a more attractive destination for international travellers as we enter 2017,” said George D. Szigeti, President and CEO, Hawaii Tourism Authority. “Hawaii's success hinges on air access meeting demand and the more route options our state can offer airlines serving international customers, the more it strengthens our tourism industry for the long term.

Hawaiian Airlines will be the first to use the new facility as it gets ready to launch nonstop service between Kona and Haneda Airport in Tokyo. Learn more at hawaiitourismauthority.org

Los Angeles International Airport
The Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners has approved plans to develop the new Terminal 1.5 Project, a major undertaking which will create new building space in the segment of LAX that currently connects Terminals 1 and 2. The new six-level terminal building will have space for ticketing, security and baggage claim, but will not include any new boarding gates.

“By improving on existing passenger processing capabilities, and providing the additional space for the latest screening technology to meet federal security requirements, this new facility will help improve the guest experience and speed up lines,” said Board of Airport Commissioners President Sean O. Burton.  “It will also make it easier for passengers making connections between Terminals 1 and 2.”

The proposed project still requires approval from the Los Angeles City Council, If approved, Terminal 1.5 is expected to open in summer 2019. For more details, check out ourlax.org.

Read more: Expanded CBP Facility at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
Construction is currently underway on a new terminal at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The $826 million project, which will debut in 2018, will feature 30 gates, a 2,000-car parking garage, a central utility plant and a ground transportation staging area. Learn more at flymsy.com.

Read more: Toronto Pearson Shoots for Mega Hub Status

Newark Liberty International Airport
Westfield is redeveloping Terminal B at Newark Liberty International Airport and taking bids from local companies that reflect the character of the Garden State.

“This will be a significant redevelopment of Terminal B and the beginning of an enhanced traveller experience,” said Iris Messina, Westfield’s Vice President of Leasing. “We’re looking for unique brands and motivated partners who are excited about working with us to reimagine Terminal B and highlight the amazing sights, sounds and flavours of New Jersey.” Check it out at westfieldcorp.com/airports.

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