Asheville Airport: Navigating Efficiently Through Its Gates

The Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina is undergoing a multi-phase renovation and expansion, which includes the construction of a new terminal building. The new terminal will have 12 gates, a significant increase from the current seven. The airport is a vital hub for the region, connecting western North Carolina to the rest of the country and facilitating both national and international travel. The expansion project is expected to be completed by 2027 and will enhance the overall airport experience for travellers.

The airport is undergoing a $400 million expansion

The Asheville Regional Airport is undergoing a $400 million expansion, marking the most significant infrastructure project in its 60-year history. The airport has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, and the construction of a new terminal is a natural progression for this vital hub connecting Western North Carolina to the world. The expansion project is expected to be completed in phases, with the first phase, the new north concourse, slated to be finished by the summer of 2025. The new concourse will include seven gates, six boarding bridges, a concession area, and restrooms.

The current terminal building, which opened in 1961, has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. However, the $400 million project marks a significant leap forward, with the new terminal set to be 150% larger than the current space, increasing the number of gates from seven to twelve. The expansion will be managed by Hensel Phelps, an industry leader known for its commitment to excellence and innovation.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion took place in August 2023 and included airport stakeholders, community leaders, and local, regional, and national elected officials. The project is supported by a combination of funding sources, including federal and state grants, airport revenue bonds, and airport operating revenue. The new terminal is expected to elevate the airport experience, with a design inspired by the natural beauty of the Western North Carolina mountains.

Upon completion, the new terminal will not only facilitate air travel but also enhance the overall experience for passengers. It will feature a spacious grand lobby, state-of-the-art ticketing and baggage claim areas, an inviting concessions plaza, and thoughtfully designed gate areas. The second phase of the expansion, expected to be completed by 2027, will include the demolition of the south concourse to make way for a second-level concessions plaza, a permanent TSA checkpoint, and an expanded ticket lobby and baggage claim area.

The Asheville Regional Airport has seen record-breaking passenger numbers, surpassing two million, and the expansion project is expected to further enhance its role as a gateway to Western North Carolina.

The terminal will be 150% larger

The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is undergoing a major transformation with a $400 million expansion project, aptly named AVL Forward, that will revolutionise the airport's infrastructure. The centrepiece of this project is the new terminal building, which will be a significant upgrade from the current facility.

The new terminal will be 150% larger than the current space, a remarkable increase that will enhance the airport's functionality and elevate the overall experience for travellers. This expansion is a direct response to the airport's remarkable growth in recent years, solidifying its role as a vital gateway to and from Western North Carolina. The larger terminal will not only facilitate increased passenger traffic but also aims to provide a more comfortable and efficient journey for all who pass through its doors.

The current terminal, which opened in 1961, has served the region well, but with the growing demand for travel, an upgrade is essential. The new terminal will offer a spacious and bright grand lobby, modern ticketing and baggage claim areas, an inviting concessions plaza, and thoughtfully designed gate areas. The design concept draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the surrounding western North Carolina mountains, creating an aesthetically pleasing and welcoming atmosphere.

The expanded terminal will also increase the number of gates from the current seven to twelve, with ample room for further expansion. This additional capacity will not only improve the efficiency of flight operations but also provide more options for travellers, making it easier to connect to various destinations. The project is being carefully managed to ensure the highest standards of quality and efficiency, with construction expected to be completed by 2027.

The Asheville Regional Airport's transformation is a testament to the region's growth and a symbol of its bright future. The new terminal will be a source of pride for the community, offering an enhanced travel experience and contributing to the economic vitality of the area.

There will be 12 gates, up from 7

The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is undergoing a multi-phase renovation and expansion of its terminal building. The airport will see a significant increase in its number of gates, with 12 gates planned upon completion, up from the current 7. This expansion project is part of the airport's efforts to accommodate growing demand and enhance passengers' comfort and experience.

The new terminal will be constructed on the site of the existing terminal, requiring a multi-year approach. The project is scheduled to be completed in phases, ensuring the airport's operations can continue during the construction process. The renovation and expansion of the terminal building is a crucial step in the airport's development, catering to the increasing passenger traffic and reinforcing its role as a gateway to and from western North Carolina.

The current terminal, with 7 gates, has served the airport well, but the expansion to 12 gates will provide ample room for further growth. This addition aligns with the airport's remarkable growth in recent years, including an increase in passenger numbers and nonstop flight destinations. The expansion project is a natural progression, ensuring the airport can continue to be a cornerstone of regional connectivity and economic vitality.

The benefits of the expanded terminal will extend beyond increased gate capacity. The new design, inspired by the natural beauty of the western North Carolina mountains, will offer a range of enhanced amenities and features. Passengers can look forward to a spacious and bright grand lobby, modern ticketing and baggage claim areas, and thoughtfully designed gate areas. These improvements are intended to elevate the overall airport experience, leaving positive and lasting impressions on travellers.

The expansion of the Asheville Regional Airport is a testament to the region's growth and the airport's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its passengers. By increasing the number of gates and enhancing the terminal facilities, the airport is well-equipped to handle higher passenger volumes and provide a more efficient and comfortable travel experience. This development solidifies the airport's position as a key transportation hub, facilitating seamless connections between western North Carolina and the rest of the world.

Construction is in three phases

The construction of the new terminal at Asheville Regional Airport is divided into three phases. The project, called AVL Forward, is the most significant infrastructure endeavour in the airport's 60-plus-year history. The new terminal will be 150% larger than the current airport, increasing the number of gates from seven to twelve. The project is expected to cost $400 million.

Phase One

The existing north concourse will be demolished, followed by the construction of a new north concourse, which will house seven gates and six boarding bridges, spacious gate hold rooms, restrooms, and concessions areas. Phase One also includes the northern expansion of the ticket lobby, a temporary TSA checkpoint, and the south baggage claim expansion. The new north concourse is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025.

Phase Two

The existing south concourse will be demolished, followed by the construction of a new south concourse, a second-level concessions plaza, the southern expansion of the ticket lobby, the northern expansion of baggage claim, the construction of the new grand lobby, and a permanent TSA security checkpoint. This phase is expected to be completed by 2027.

Phase Three

The third phase involves back-of-house construction, demolition, and clean-up for approximately another year.

It is expected to be complete by 2027

The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is undergoing a multi-phase renovation and expansion of its terminal building, which is expected to be complete by 2027. The project is a significant infrastructure endeavour in the airport's 60-plus-year history. The airport has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, and the construction of a new terminal is a natural next step for this vital hub connecting western North Carolina to the world.

The new terminal will include 280,000 square feet, 150% larger than the current space, with 12 gates instead of the current seven. The renovated and expanded terminal is being constructed on the site of the existing terminal, necessitating a multi-year approach to its construction. The old terminal is being demolished in phases, with the north concourse demolished in August 2023 and the south concourse to be demolished in the next phase. The new terminal will feature a spacious and bright grand lobby, state-of-the-art ticketing and baggage claim areas, an inviting concessions plaza, and thoughtfully designed gate areas to enhance passenger comfort and experience.

The construction of the new terminal is being managed by Hensel Phelps, an industry leader known for its commitment to excellence and innovation. The project is supported by a $400 million investment, funded by a combination of sources including federal and state grants, airport revenue bonds, and airport operating revenue. The project also includes the construction of a new air traffic control tower, with construction beginning in 2023 and scheduled for completion in 2025.

The expansion of the Asheville Regional Airport is expected to bring several benefits to the region. The airport currently serves more than 1.8 million passengers annually and is the third-largest airport in North Carolina. The expansion will enhance the airport's connectivity and economic vitality, providing convenient access to Asheville's vibrant culture, outdoor activities, and regional attractions. The additional gates and increased square footage will allow for more flights and passengers, accommodating the growing demand for travel in the region.

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