Washington Dulles International Airport is moving ahead with one of the largest airport reconstruction projects in U.S. history—a $19.9 billion overhaul that will rebuild its terminal, add new concourses and finally replace the slow passenger vehicles that carry travelers across the tarmac.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority approved the plan Wednesday. It includes $6.2 billion to reconstruct the main terminal and $3.75 billion for underground tunnels and an automated passenger-transit system.

The tunnels would eliminate Dulles’ distinctive “people movers,” the aging mobile lounges that raise and lower passengers between the terminal and aircraft areas. Once considered innovative, the vehicles have become one of the airport’s most common passenger complaints.

The project will add or renovate approximately 5 million square feet. Work on the main terminal is expected to begin in late 2027, while major portions of the new transit system, terminal renovations and concourse construction are targeted for completion beginning in 2034. Other concourse work could continue into 2039.

Dulles needs the additional capacity. Passenger traffic increased 6.4% last year to a record 29 million, making it the fastest-growing large U.S. airport. United Airlines, which handles approximately 70% of Dulles traffic, will also begin using a new 14-gate concourse this fall.

Most of the overhaul will be financed through approximately $14.2 billion in municipal bonds rather than direct federal funding. But travelers may ultimately feel the cost. The amount airlines pay the airport for each boarding passenger is projected to rise from about $13 today to between $60 and $65 by 2038—an increase carriers could eventually reflect in ticket prices.

The approved $19.9 billion package also does not include the enormous parking garage and transportation center contained in President Donald Trump’s broader $22 billion vision for Dulles. Those additions would require separate approval and financing.

JBizNews Desk | Dulles, Virginia

© JBizNews.com All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or distribution without written permission is prohibited.