Pittsburgh International Airport unveils a new terminal modernization program

The Allegheny County Airport Authority (Pittsburgh International Airport) has issued this statement:

As part of a special board meeting and the annual State of the Airport event on Wednesday, Feb. 20, the Allegheny County Airport Authority Board of Directors approved a visionary concept design for the Terminal Modernization Program at Pittsburgh International Airport.

The concept design for the new terminal to be built adjacent to the current Airside facility between Concourses C and D and scheduled to open in 2023, was unveiled to airport employees and the public on Wednesday.

It is based on a unique philosophy of nature, technology and community – NaTeCo – developed over the past seven months by the design team joint venture of architectural and engineering firms Gensler and HDR in association with luis vidal + architects.

The firms, which were awarded the design contract in July 2018, have been studying the Pittsburgh region and taking their inspiration directly from the rolling hills and rivers, neighborhoods and communities, and new economic diversity that has led to Pittsburgh’s re-emergence over the past few decades.

Specifics of the design for the new terminal that consolidates check-in, ticketing, security and baggage operations into one connected facility, including square footages, will continue to be refined over the next phase of the project – Schematic Design – which is expected to run through summer 2019.

While subject to change, the concept design currently features:

  • Separate levels for departing and arriving passengers and a non-public level for building systems such as baggage belts
  • Additional space for an expanded TSA checkpoint
  • Shorter walking distances for arriving and departing domestic and international passengers
  • Indoor and outdoor green plazas and gathering spaces
  • Additional space for concessions, artwork and other amenities
  • Planning for technological improvements and more automated systems
  • Emphasis on sustainability

The Airport Authority has engaged the community in the design process by forming Program Advisory and Best Practice Working Groups to solicit input and feedback about features of the new terminal. Outreach events and surveys were conducted this past summer in Market Square and at the airport’s annual Holiday Open House in December. The team will continue to seek input on the new terminal throughout the Schematic Design phase.