Asheville Regional Airport is the third busiest airport in the state and growing — literally. In August of last year, the airport broke ground on the most significant infrastructure project in its history, called AVL Forward.
The new terminal will be 150% larger than the current airport, bringing the number of gates from seven to 12. Last week, we put on our hard hats to take a look at the progress, and we’re bringing you with us.
Phase one
The new north concourse is expected to be completed by summer of 2025 and will include seven gates, six boarding bridges, a concession area, and restrooms (even for dogs). The steel framing on the building is complete, with interior finishing slated for November of this year.
Phase one also includes the northern expansion of the ticket lobby, a temporary TSA checkpoint, and the south baggage claim expansion.
Phase two
Once work on the north concourse wraps up, phase two of the expansion will begin with the demolition of the south concourse to make way for:
- A new lobby
- A second-level concessions plaza
- A permanent TSA checkpoint
- An expanded ticket lobby and baggage claim area
This phase is expected to be complete by 2027.
Next up
After phase two wraps up, there’s still about a year of back-of-house work to do involving construction, demolition, and clean up before the $400 million project is complete.
With this physical growth, Asheville Regional Airport has seen record-breaking passenger numbers (surpassing two million), with economic growth and employment on the up-and-up as well.
To keep up with the milestones of this project, visit AVL Forward’s website. You can also find virtual tours that let you explore the renderings.
