Airport Updates: Latest News On The Global Market (W/C Sept. 22, 2025)

The latest news on airports globally, with updates on financing, infrastructure expansion and sustainability initiatives.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) said its $608 million terminal lobby expansion project has been completed. Started in 2019, the infrastructure program added 175,000 ft.² of space and renovated another 191,000 ft.² “Originally opened May 2, 1982, the terminal was designed to serve approximately 2.8 million passengers annually,” CLT noted. “In 2024, CLT saw a record 58.8 million travelers, with 18 million—31% of total passengers—using the terminal lobby for arrivals and departures.” The lobby area’s baggage claim and ticketing levels were renovated and expanded. “Two underground walkways allow passengers to bypass upper- and lower-level terminal roadway traffic,” the airport said. The project also added pre-security concessions. “This monumental effort represents years of planning, construction and commitment to improving the passenger experience,” CLT CEO Haley Gentry said. “The result is a modern, spacious lobby that reflects the dynamic growth of our region and positions us for the future.” CLT is American Airlines’ second-largest hub.

Vilnius Ciurlionis International Airport (VNO) operator Lithuanian Airports secured a €20 million ($23 million) loan from the Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) for airport enhancements. “A significant share of the financing will go toward constructing a multi-level [automobile] parking facility at Vilnius Airport, which will help ease passenger flow and improve accessibility,” NIB said. VNO will also use the funds to overhaul ground equipment, including buying new loaders, tractors and snow plows. The airport will also acquire electric buses and charging infrastructure. “These investments will not only enhance service quality but also contribute to more sustainable airport operations,” said Vilius Girkontas, NIB’s country lead for Lithuania.

Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) operator Bucharest National Airports Company said it has received nine bids from engineering firms to design OTP’s planned new passenger terminal. Bids will continue to be accepted though Dec. 5. The terminal is expected to span 176,000 m² (1,894,448 ft.²). The terminal is projected to allow the airport to handle 30 million annual passengers by 2040.

Mackay Airport (MKY), a regional airport in Queensland, Australia, plans to invest A$60 million ($39 million) in a passenger terminal upgrade, runway improvements and expanded automobile parking facilities. The terminal project will commence in January 2026. “Our terminal will be a vibrant new space, with more room for passengers, a remodeled observation deck, upgraded bathrooms and modern furnishings,” MKY CEO Richard Baker said. Qantas, Virgin Australia and LCC Jetstar serve the airport.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) started the renovation of Terminal C’s automobile parking garage. “The garage is about 50 years old and in need of a variety of repairs that will improve the facility,” PHL CCO Kate Sullivan said. “By taking a phased approach now, we will be able to keep portions of the garage open throughout the project rather than close the entire garage for an extended period of time.” The garage has 1,800 parking spaces. Levels will close and reopen as construction is conducted, with full completion expected by fall 2026. The project is starting on the garage’s roof, with 350 parking spots initially to be closed. “We do advise [passengers] to allow some extra time to find available parking, especially during busier travel periods,” Sullivan said.