Jerrod KingeryA new terminal at Washington Dulles International Airport is getting a major infusion of federal funding for its construction.
Dulles will receive $40 million from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminals Program to support the construction of the new building.
The 400,000-square-foot terminal will feature 14 gates and include direct connections to the AeroTrain, the automated train system that moves passengers between the terminal and midfield gates. It will also feature an indirect connection to the Metrorail.
The plan also calls for larger seating areas, more concession options and airline lounges.
This funding is part of $970 million allotted by the FAA for airports across the U.S. to upgrade their terminals. The FAA is encouraging airports to pursue projects that enhance passenger comfort and operational capacity and efficiency. This includes funding for new baggage handling systems, larger security checkpoints, expanded terminal facilities and improved access to ground transportation options.
RELATED: FAA unveils $2.2 billion in grants for airport infrastructure upgrades
Earlier this year, Dulles was awarded $35 million for the new terminal building from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In 2022 the project received $49.6 million, and in 2023 received $20 million in federal funding.
The total cost for the new terminal, set to open in 2026, is estimated between $500 million and $800 million.
Two other Virginia airports are also receiving grants in this round of funding:
- Norfolk International Airport – $14,716,366 to support the realignment of the airport exclusive use access roadway to improve traffic flow into and out of the main terminal area.
- Richmond International Airport – $2,250,000 to design a proposed consolidated passenger screening checkpoint to make passenger flow more efficient and reduce congestion.
Rendering courtesy Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
