Ruth Haines
John Glenn Columbus International Airport is undergoing a major transformation, with a new terminal set to open in 2029. The new terminal will replace the current 66-year-old terminal, which has 29 gates across three concourses. The new terminal will boast 36 gates, a 25% increase, including two international arrival gates, and will be able to accommodate up to 13 million passengers per year, a significant jump from the current eight million. This $2 billion project will not only enhance the airport's capacity but also improve the overall travel experience with a centralised security checkpoint and seamless connections to transportation and parking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of gates | 36 |
| Previous number of gates | 29 |
| Increase in number of gates | 7 |
| Expected daily passenger capacity increase | 51% |
| Expected annual passenger capacity | 13 million |
| Number of international arrival gates | 2 |
| Year of opening | 2029 |
What You'll Learn
The new terminal will have 36 gates, a 25% increase
The John Glenn Columbus International Airport is undergoing a significant transformation with the construction of a new terminal, slated to begin operations in early 2029. This development is a response to the existing terminal's age and the city's growing aviation demands. The new terminal will offer enhanced functionality and a superior experience for travellers.
One of the most notable features of the new terminal is the increase in the number of gates. Currently, the airport operates with 29 gates, but the new terminal will boast 36 gates, reflecting a 25% increase. This expansion will provide greater flexibility for aircraft movements and contribute to accommodating a higher volume of passengers. The additional gates will also allow for more efficient handling of larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 747-8, the largest plane in Boeing's fleet.
The design of the new terminal is inspired by the confluence of the Olentangy and Scioto Rivers, resulting in a Y-shaped form that symbolises travellers' journeys and the terminal's role as a regional connector. The terminal's exterior will streamline access to various ground transportation options, including transit, rental cars, and parking. Passengers will benefit from a strategically planned entrance that facilitates smooth circulation, with convenient proximity to the ticketing lobby and security checkpoint.
The new terminal will introduce a centralised security checkpoint, replacing the current system of separate checkpoints for each concourse. This centralised approach will enhance efficiency and provide travellers with seamless access to concessions and amenities throughout the terminal. The central marketplace will serve as a focal point, ensuring an equitable experience for all visitors and offering exciting new food and beverage options.
To accommodate the increase in gates and passenger capacity, the new terminal will span one million square feet, significantly larger than the current facility. This expansion will enable the airport to handle a projected 51% increase in daily passenger capacity, catering to over 13 million passengers annually. The additional space will also allow for larger hold rooms, providing a more comfortable waiting experience for travellers.
In summary, the new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport embodies a forward-thinking vision. With 36 gates, a 25% increase, the terminal will not only enhance operational capacity but also elevate the overall airport experience. The design, inspired by the natural confluence of rivers, will create a seamless travel journey while incorporating energy-efficient technology and sustainable practices. As Columbus continues to thrive and grow, the new terminal will be a gateway to the city, welcoming visitors from near and far.
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The new terminal will be able to accommodate 51% more passengers
The John Glenn Columbus International Airport is undergoing a significant transformation with the construction of a new terminal, slated to begin operations in early 2029. This $2 billion project is designed to cater to the growing needs of the Midwest's fastest-growing city and enhance travellers' experiences.
The new terminal will be a substantial upgrade, covering one million square feet, featuring a centralised security checkpoint, and boasting 36 gates. This represents a notable increase from the current 29 gates and will enable the airport to accommodate 51% more passengers daily. The additional gates will also provide room for future growth and expansion. The current terminal, which has served the airport well for over six decades, is reaching the end of its useful life, having facilitated over eight million passengers annually.
The new terminal's design is inspired by the confluence of the Olentangy and Scioto Rivers, with its Y-shaped form symbolising travellers' journeys and the terminal's role as a connector. The terminal will offer streamlined access to various transportation options, including a new 5,000-space parking garage with accessibility options such as electric vehicle chargers. A pedestrian bridge will seamlessly connect the terminal to the transportation centre, parking garage, and rental car centre, providing added convenience for travellers.
The central marketplace within the terminal will be a highlight, serving as an architectural focal point and offering breathtaking views of the airfield and skyline. This space will provide a relaxing atmosphere for passengers to connect and enjoy new dining options. The hold rooms will also be 40% to 60% larger than those in the existing terminal, ensuring greater comfort for waiting passengers.
The construction of the new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and its commitment to providing a world-class travel experience for generations to come. With the ability to accommodate 51% more passengers daily, the airport is poised to meet the growing demands of travellers and contribute to the region's economic growth and development.
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The current terminal has 29 gates
The current terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport has 29 gates across three concourses. The airport is building a new terminal, which will have 36 gates, including two for international passengers. The new terminal is expected to open in early 2029, with construction starting in early 2025. The current terminal, which opened in 1958, will be demolished to make way for the new one.
The new terminal will be a significant upgrade for the airport, boasting one million square feet of space. It will feature a centralised security checkpoint, a central atrium with natural light and views of the airfield and skyline, and a central marketplace with food and beverage options. The hold rooms will be 40% to 60% larger than those in the current terminal, providing more comfort for passengers.
The new terminal will also include a new parking garage with over 5,000 spaces, accessible by a pedestrian bridge that will connect to the transportation centre, the existing parking garage, and the rental car centre. The exterior of the terminal will be designed for streamlined access to various modes of ground transportation, including transit, rental cars, and parking.
The construction of the new terminal is estimated to cost $2 billion. The project is being managed by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA), which has identified the need for a new terminal due to the strategic importance of the airport to the rapidly growing city of Columbus. The existing terminal, while having served the city well for over six decades, is reaching the end of its useful life, facilitating over eight million passengers annually.
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The new terminal will have two international arrival gates
The John Glenn Columbus International Airport is undergoing a significant transformation with the construction of a new terminal, slated to be completed in 2029. This $2 billion project is designed to replace the current 66-year-old terminal, which has been deemed outdated and inefficient by airport officials. The new terminal will boast 36 gates, a notable increase from the current 29, offering a seamless travel experience with centralised security and improved efficiency.
Among the 36 gates, two will be dedicated to international arrivals, marking a significant upgrade for the airport. This addition will enhance the airport's capability to accommodate international travellers, catering to the growing demand for global connectivity. The international arrival gates will be an integral part of the terminal's design, ensuring a streamlined and welcoming experience for passengers entering Columbus from overseas.
The inclusion of these international arrival gates underscores the airport's commitment to expanding its global reach. While the new terminal itself is a significant step forward, the addition of these gates highlights the potential for new routes and destinations. The airport authorities have expressed their willingness to partner with airlines to explore these opportunities, recognising that the demand for international travel is an essential aspect of a dynamic and thriving aviation hub.
The new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport is more than just a building; it symbolises the airport's evolution and its commitment to meeting the needs of its diverse travellers. With a projected capacity to handle 51% more passengers daily, the terminal will be a bustling gateway to the city. The efficient design, with its centralised security checkpoint and modern concession facilities, will ensure a seamless journey for all passengers, including those arriving from international destinations.
The two international arrival gates are a strategic inclusion in the terminal's design, reflecting the airport's ambition to enhance its global connectivity. As Columbus continues to grow and thrive, the new terminal, with its dedicated international arrival gates, will play a pivotal role in shaping the city's future as a vibrant and well-connected destination.
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The new terminal will be completed in 2029
The new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport is slated for completion in early 2029. The project is a significant development with an estimated investment of $2 billion. Construction is expected to commence in early 2025 and will take place alongside the airport's current operations, ensuring uninterrupted flight schedules during the building process.
The new terminal will be a transformative upgrade, boasting one million square feet of space—a notable increase from the current terminal's age and limitations. The design is inspired by the confluence of the Olentangy and Scioto Rivers, with its Y-shape symbolising travellers' journeys and the terminal's role as a regional connector. The terminal will feature a centralised security checkpoint, streamlining the travel experience and providing access to various amenities for all passengers.
The number of gates will increase from the current 29 to 36, including two international arrival gates, enabling the airport to accommodate 51% more passengers daily and facilitating a projected increase in annual passenger traffic to 13 million. The additional gates will also provide room for future growth and expansion. The new terminal will be able to handle larger aircraft, including Boeing's 747-8, the largest plane in their fleet.
The terminal's design incorporates sustainability features, aiming for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. Energy-efficient systems, a reclaimed water system, electric charging stations, and energy-efficient materials like smart glass will be utilised to reduce energy and water consumption.
The new terminal will also enhance the overall airport experience. A central marketplace will offer breathtaking views of the airfield and skyline, providing a relaxing space for passengers to connect. The food and beverage options will be expanded, and hold rooms will be 40% to 60% larger for increased passenger comfort.
In addition to the terminal, a new 5,000-space parking garage will be constructed, providing ample parking options, including electric vehicle chargers. A pedestrian bridge will seamlessly connect the terminal to the transportation centre, parking garage, and rental car centre, improving accessibility for travellers.
The completion of the new terminal in 2029 will mark a significant milestone for John Glenn Columbus International Airport, providing an efficient, modern, and eco-friendly gateway to the city.
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Frequently asked questions
The John Glenn Columbus International Airport currently has 29 gates across three concourses. However, a new terminal is under construction and will feature 36 gates, including two for international passengers.
The new terminal is expected to be operational by early 2029.
The new terminal will be a significant upgrade, covering one million square feet. It will have a centralised security checkpoint and concourse, improving efficiency and accessibility. The terminal will also incorporate eco-friendly design features, such as energy-efficient technology and a reclaimed water system.
The current terminal, opened in 1958, is over 60 years old and has reached the end of its useful life. With Columbus's growing population and the airport's increasing passenger traffic, a new terminal is required to accommodate future demand and enhance the travel experience.
