City of Austin Seal

City of Austin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release Date: Feb. 06, 2026
A group of airport and city leaders stand inside a bright, modern terminal area holding a ribbon that reads “Journey With AUS” during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. They smile for photos in front of new security screening equipment, marking the opening of a newly expanded checkpoint space.

Major milestone in expansion program adds 75,000 square feet of space

AUSTIN, Texas - Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the West Infill project, a transformative addition to the Barbara Jordan Terminal and a defining moment in the airport’s Journey With AUS expansion program.

This project adds more than 75,000 square feet across four levels, delivering a new TSA Checkpoint, which will open to the traveling public on February 23, 2026, and infrastructure upgrades that will enhance airport security and make traveling through AUS more efficient and more comfortable for tens of millions of travelers each year.

“The completion of the West Infill project is a pivotal step forward for AUS and for our community,’’ said AUS Chief Executive Officer Ghizlane Badawi. "Our airport is serving 21+ million annual passengers, five years ahead of what our AUS 2040 Master Plan projected. This project is about more than adding space, it’s about delivering a better experience for every traveler as quickly as possible.”

The West Infill was launched as part of the airport’s response to the projection-defying surge in passenger activity that occurred in 2022. While the future centralized TSA Checkpoint, as part of the Arrivals and Departures Hall project, will replace the need for the new Checkpoint 4, AUS leaders decided to move forward with this project to deliver more space for TSA operations and relieve pressure on the terminal as soon as possible.

In addition to the new TSA Checkpoint designed to accommodate up to eight total lanes, the project enhances the passenger experience with other key improvements, including:

  • Outbound Baggage Handling System: Operational since December 2025, this high-tech system features a 1.5-mile conveyor belt capable of processing 4,000 bags per hour, improving reliability and helping to reduce flight delays.
  • Additional Ticket Counters: Three new counters with six ticketing positions to accommodate the airline’s operations.
  • New Airline Space: Dedicated square footage on the mezzanine level for future airline support functions and passenger amenities.
  • New Airport Operational space: Dedicated square footage on the apron level for airport office space supporting operational and maintenance staff.
  • Art and Design Enhancements: Installation of all six pieces from the Voyages art series and reinstallation of the iconic Austin Downtown Cruiser (Day) on the Concourse.
  • Sustainability Commitment: Pursuit of an Austin Energy Green Building 3-star rating, with environmentally responsible materials and energy-efficient systems.
  • Upgraded Infrastructure: An independent HVAC system for improved climate control, new elevators, and modernized mechanical, electrical, and IT systems

The $241 million investment was funded through traditional airport development sources, including airport revenues, future revenue bonds, FAA grants, and $15.99 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. No taxpayer dollars were used.

Project partners include:

  • Prime Contractor: Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
  • Architect: Gensler
  • Subject Matter Expert: AECOM

The West Infill expansion is one of several near-term projects in the Journey With AUS program, a strategic investment plan to modernize and expand Austin’s airport infrastructure while meeting the growth and demands of the Central Texas region. This project was completed ahead of schedule and within budget.

Travelers can learn more about the Journey With AUS program and upcoming improvements by visiting our website at FlyAustin.com.

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