The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), United Airlines, and the U.S. Department of Transportation have announced a more than $20 billion program to modernize Washington Dulles International Airport over the next decade. The project will deliver more than 5 million square feet of new and renovated facilities while preserving the airport’s iconic main terminal.
The program includes new concourses, replacement of the existing C/D Concourse, expanded security areas, upgraded baggage systems, additional gates, and new passenger amenities. The project will also expand the AeroTrain system, add a central pedestrian tunnel, create direct access to a new customs facility, and retire the airport’s mobile lounge vehicles.
The modernization builds on the airport’s existing master plan and expands a previously approved $7 billion capital program. MWAA will finance much of the project through municipal bonds in partnership with airlines serving the airport. Other portions of the development may include public-private partnership investments.
Construction is already underway on several projects. Concourse E, featuring 14 new gates for United Airlines, is scheduled to open later this year. Once complete, the modernization will increase airport capacity, improve passenger circulation, and support additional international services.