Offering 29 nonstop flights to airports across the country, the Will Rogers World Airport is a major transportation hub for the region and continues to grow. The airport currently accommodates more than 3.9 million travelers each year, with an average of 72 daily departures.
An expansion project that will start in early 2019 and take place over two years will provide more than 135,000 square feet of new terminal space and renovate about 21,000 square feet of the existing terminal, said Karen Carney, airport spokesperson.
Key improvements will include:
- Four new airline gates with increased hold room seating and new passenger boarding bridges.
- Mezzanine level circulation and observation area.
- Centralized security checkpoint.
- Additional concession space (food and retail).
- Technology improvements.
- Area for a future customs inspection facility.
- New public artwork installations.
- New furniture and fixtures for new and remodeled areas.
Future growth plans will add an additional seven airline gates.
Businesses and residents will benefit from the expansion because the additional gates will allow the airport to attract more airlines, Carney said.
Also:
- The centralized security checkpoint will streamline the screening process, which will improve the passenger experience.
- New greeter lobbies will provide plenty of space for family and friends to comfortably wait for their returning passengers.
In addition, the airport is creating a shell-space for a passenger customs processing facility in hopes of offering international destinations in the years to come.
Another goal for the airport is to develop and promote Lariat Landing, 1,000 acres of prime, developable land on the east side of the airport, Carney said. The area provides opportunities for multi-use, multi-industry options. Recent improvements have helped the airport and city draw in new tenants such as the SkyWest Airlines Maintenance Facility, FedEx Ground Distribution Center and the Amazon Fulfillment Center.
Also recently, a $2 million public works grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration assisted in expanding and improving two of the airport’s hangars to meet changing industry standards. The improvements promote continued growth in the region.
Now more than ever, the airport is poised for the future.