The latest news on airports globally, with updates on financing, infrastructure expansion and sustainability initiatives.
The U.S. Transportation Department (DOT) awarded $615 million in grants to airports across the country, the latest tranche of money delivered as part of Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds approved by Congress earlier this decade. The grants include more than $22 million to Miami International Airport for taxiway rehabilitation and installation of new taxiway lighting. Other AIP grants awarded include $3 million to Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport for apron rehabilitation; $15.3 million to San Diego International for noise mitigation; $2.4 million to Sacramento International Airport in California for new passenger boarding bridges; $6.3 million to Wilmington International in North Carolina for a runway extension; and $4.5 million to Tampa International Airport in Florida to reconstruct a taxiway.
Brisbane Airport (BNE) reached the halfway point of an AU$217 million ($154 million) construction project to build an aeromedical precinct, which will have capacity for 26 aircraft spread among 17,800 m² (191,600 ft.²) of tarmac parking. The precinct, on which construction started in 2025, will be located between BNE’s parallel runways and be home to aircraft and resources for emergency medical operators, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service, LifeFlight medical jets and helicopters and the Queensland Police Service Aviation Capability Group. BNE noted that in the 12 months ending May 31, 7,207 patients were flown in and out of the airport for care by the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The precinct will include facilities to move patients between aircraft and ambulances, as well as 18,700 m² of hangar and administration space.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) reopened two gates in Terminal 3 (T3) to be used by American Airlines. The carrier gained control of the gates in July. Both gates have been upgraded, with passenger waiting areas expanded. The gate refreshes are part of a $300 million ORD T3 modernization project. In addition, the airport opened four T3 baggage carousels, bringing the terminal’s total to 33. American is also building a new lounge in T3, doubling the space of its current lounge in the terminal.
Malaysia Airports said it has advanced a proposal to expand Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) that would increase annual capacity from 9 million to 12 million passengers. The project would include the expansion and renovation of the airport’s passenger terminal, airside infrastructure improvements and upgrades to curbside areas and an automobile parking lot. Served by 18 airlines, BKI is the main gateway to the Malaysian state of Sabah and the island of Borneo.
Auckland Airport (AKL) said it will soon launch a project to upgrade its retail and duty-free area. According to the airport, the refurbishment will grow the area and create “better brand experiences.” The redevelopment will include an “expanded beauty precinct, bringing together leading global, local and emerging names across skincare, cosmetics, fragrance, haircare and suncare,” AKL said.
Related Content
