Design team unveils Terminal Modernization Program at Pittsburgh International Airport

The design concept for the Terminal Modernization Program at Pittsburgh International Airport was unveiled on February 20 at a State of the Airport event and approved by the Allegheny County Airport Authority Board.

The new terminal, designed by a joint venture between Gensler and HDR in association with luis vidal + architects, will be built adjacent to the current Airside facility between Concourses C and D. The design team drew inspiration from nature, technology, and the community of western Pennsylvania for the new terminal.

Pittsburgh International Airport rendering exterior Courtesy ACAA.

The design consolidates check-in, ticketing, security, and baggage operations into one connected facility. While still subject to change over subsequent project phases, the design currently features separate levels for departing and arriving passengers, a non-public level for building systems like baggage belts, additional space for an expanded TSA checkpoint, shorter walking distances for domestic and international passengers, indoor and outdoor green plazas and gathering spaces, additional concessions and amenity space, planning for technological improvements and more automated systems, and an emphasis on sustainability.

The Airport Authority has engaged in outreach events and surveys to gather community input and feedback about the new design. The terminal is slated to open in 2023.

A terminal modernization program can be a complicated and expensive task that airport operators may be hesitant to undertake unless necessitated by demands for increased capacity. This is the first post in our series examining why airport operators should bother to upgrade their facilities, even if capacity isn’t forcing the issue.