On August 29, 2024, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) marked the beginning of major work on its nearly $9 billion capital improvement plan, known as "DFW Forward." This plan aims to transform the airport by upgrading terminals, adding new facilities and amenities, expanding the number of gates, improving roadways and connectivity, and enhancing the airfield. This initiative represents the largest capital investment at DFW since its opening 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 Chief Executive Officer. “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. The work in front of us is exciting, but it is going to be complex, challenging and impactful as we continue to operate one of the world’s busiest airports.”
Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the project, particularly the upcoming construction of a reimagined Terminal C at DFW Airport. “As an international city, Dallas flourishes through the global relationships made possible by the third-busiest airport in the world. This monumental expansion will strengthen one of Dallas’ greatest assets, facilitating more dynamic connections with our nation and the world.”
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker also highlighted the importance of the project, stating, "As DFW Airport embarks on this latest transformation, we are excited to see how these advancements will further enhance the travel experience and strengthen our connection to the world as the DFW Metroplex continues to rapidly grow. The reimagining of Terminal C is a significant step forward in ensuring that DFW Airport maintains its status as a top aviation hub. We're committed to supporting this growth and look forward to the new opportunities and benefits it will bring to travelers and the region."
Rebuilding Terminal C
One major aspect of the capital improvement plan is to completely rebuild and expand Terminal C. This approximately $3 billion project aims to transform the airport’s busiest and most outdated terminal into a modern, spacious facility by removing over 400 view-blocking columns, installing new dynamic glass windows, and raising the roof throughout the terminal. Customers will also benefit from all-new facilities, including shops and restaurants, lounge spaces, check-in areas, security checkpoints, and improved restrooms.
The project also includes double-loaded pier expansions for both Terminal C and Terminal A, which will occur concurrently with the first phase of Terminal C’s reconstruction. These 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 increased capacity to accommodate growth, both expansions will offer more amenities for travelers, including new restaurant and retail options, seating areas, and restrooms.
After completing the first phase and expansions, the remainder of Terminal C's concourse will be demolished and rebuilt in two additional phases. This phased approach will allow flight operations to continue in other parts of the terminal while focused areas undergo significant construction. Due to the phased nature of the project, the overall completion of Terminal C is anticipated by 2030.
In strategic coordination with the first construction phase of Terminal C, the adjacent south parking garage will be completely rebuilt. The new garage will feature additional parking and modern parking management technologies to accommodate the terminal’s expansion. The entrance to the south garage is scheduled to close on September 14 to prepare for demolition later this year. The north and central garages will remain available, and customers are encouraged to book parking online ahead of travel to secure the best rates and to check live availability of parking garages and lots before or upon arrival.
The design-build team for the Terminal C project’s first phase and expansion, as well as the Terminal A expansion, is a joint venture comprised of Austin Commercial, Azteca Enterprises and Alpha & Omega, with HOK and Muller & Muller, Ltd. as design team members.
DFW Forward Capital Program
DFW Forward, the airport’s overall capital program, includes more than 180 projects in various stages of planning, development, and construction, spread throughout the airport’s extensive airfield, terminal, and roadway systems.
Some of DFW’s other notable projects that are preparing to take significant construction steps in the coming months include the airport’s sixth Terminal F, which will feature 15 gates, a Skylink station, modernized systems, and expanded concessions. The International Parkway Modernization project will transition access to Terminals A, B, and C to right-hand exits.
Several other large projects are also underway:
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Electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP): Construction is underway on a new facility that will help heat and cool DFW’s terminals with electricity supplied from 100% renewable resources.
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East West Connector Roadway: A new east-west thoroughfare on the south side of the airport is under construction, connecting Rental Car Drive to State Highway 360, following years of planning and partnership.
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Southwest End-Around Taxiway Project: DFW’s third end-around taxiway is currently under a multi-phase construction program to further enhance the safety and efficiency of aircraft movements.
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Fire Station Modernization Project: Two brand-new fire stations are being built in central airfield locations on both sides of the airport, aiming to maximize resiliency, minimize response time, and improve the efficiency and protection of essential equipment and personnel.
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19th Street Cargo Redevelopment: To meet the growing cargo demand at DFW, new facilities are planned that will nearly double cargo aircraft parking capacity, with seven new positions designed for some of the world’s largest aircraft.
