Tampa Airport $1.5B Airside D Expansion Targets 35M Passengers by 2037

Tampa International Airport’s $1.5 Billion Expansion: What to Expect from Airside D

Tampa International Airport (TPA) has long been recognized for its efficient design and user-friendly layout. Now, for the first time in nearly two decades, the airport is undergoing a major transformation with the addition of the new Airside D terminal. This $1.5 billion project represents a strategic investment in the region’s infrastructure and is poised to significantly enhance the airport’s capacity and passenger experience.

Set for completion in 2028, the 600,000-square-foot Airside D terminal will expand TPA’s annual passenger handling capability from approximately 25 million to up to 35 million by 2037. This is not just a construction project, it’s a forward-looking initiative that aligns with Tampa Bay’s rapid population growth, increasing tourism, and evolving air travel demands. The expansion is part of a broader master plan to future-proof the airport and maintain its competitive edge in the Southeastern United States.

Project Overview and Strategic Goals

Design and Infrastructure Enhancements

The new Airside D terminal is being constructed where the original Airside D once stood, just northwest of the main terminal. The architectural plans, developed by Hensel Phelps, HNTB, and Gensler, prioritize passenger comfort and operational efficiency. Features include wider security lanes, transparent jet bridges, and two premium lounges. The lower level will house a modern international arrivals zone, while retail and dining spaces will offer open views of the gates.

Construction teams began clearing the site in March 2025, removing nearly 500,000 square feet of old concrete. Rather than sending this material to landfills, it was crushed and repurposed for roadbeds and drainage systems, an example of the project’s commitment to sustainability. Crisdel Group secured an $81.5 million contract for critical airfield work, including aircraft parking, lighting, and fuel line upgrades.

These upgrades are designed not only to accommodate more flights and passengers but also to streamline the travel experience. By incorporating modern design principles and technological infrastructure, TPA is positioning itself to meet the challenges of 21st-century air travel.

“This $1.5 billion investment signals Tampa’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leading airport in the Southeastern United States.” – Jim Mayhew, Aviation Commentator

Passenger Growth and Regional Demand

TPA’s expansion is a direct response to increasing passenger volumes. During the 2024 Memorial Day weekend alone, the airport handled 296,000 travelers. With Tampa Bay’s population steadily rising and tourism rebounding post-pandemic, the need for expanded airport capacity has become urgent. The Airside D terminal is expected to play a critical role in alleviating congestion and improving passenger flow.

Before the pandemic, TPA handled over 20 million passengers annually. As travel rebounds, projections indicate that the airport could serve up to 35 million passengers annually by 2037. This growth necessitates not only more gates and lounges but also upgraded security and customs infrastructure to handle international traffic efficiently.

In anticipation of this growth, TPA staff are engaging with the community through public meetings across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. Feedback from these sessions is being integrated into the planning process, ensuring that the terminal meets both functional and aesthetic expectations of local residents and travelers alike.

Economic and Environmental Impacts

The Airside D project is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region. Beyond the immediate construction jobs, the terminal will support long-term employment in retail, hospitality, and airport operations. It also positions Tampa as a more attractive destination for international carriers and business travelers.

Environmental sustainability is a key component of the expansion. From recycling construction materials to incorporating energy-efficient systems, the project is designed with long-term ecological impact in mind. The airport’s leadership has emphasized that growth should not come at the expense of environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, the project aligns with broader trends in the aviation industry toward greener, smarter, and more resilient infrastructure. As climate concerns and regulatory pressures mount, airports like TPA are adopting sustainable practices as standard protocol rather than optional features.

Broader Industry Context and Future Outlook

Trends in Airport Modernization

TPA’s Airside D expansion is part of a larger movement across the aviation industry. Airports globally are investing in modernization to meet increasing demand, improve security protocols, and enhance passenger experience. From biometric screening to automated baggage handling, the future of air travel is being shaped by technology and customer-centric design.

In the U.S., major hubs like LAX, JFK, and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson have all embarked on multi-billion-dollar upgrades. Tampa’s initiative, though smaller in scale, is no less significant. It reflects a commitment to staying competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving travel landscape.

By integrating advanced technologies and prioritizing passenger comfort, TPA is setting a benchmark for mid-sized airports. The Airside D terminal will likely serve as a model for similar projects in other growing metropolitan areas.

Community Engagement and Transparency

One of the standout aspects of TPA’s approach is its commitment to community engagement. Through public forums and online platforms like AscendTPA.com, airport officials are keeping residents informed and involved. This transparency helps build trust and ensures that the project reflects the needs and values of the community it serves.

Feedback from these sessions has already influenced decisions around amenities, accessibility, and design aesthetics. This collaborative approach may become a best practice for other infrastructure projects seeking public buy-in and long-term support.

As the project progresses, regular updates will continue to be shared across social media and local news outlets, maintaining open lines of communication between the airport and its stakeholders.

Challenges and Risk Management

Like any large-scale infrastructure project, the Airside D expansion faces potential challenges. Supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and regulatory hurdles could impact the timeline and budget. However, TPA’s phased planning and experienced contractors provide a buffer against many of these risks.

Additionally, the airport’s history of successful expansions and operational efficiency suggests a strong capacity for project management. By leveraging past experience and current best practices, TPA is well-positioned to navigate potential setbacks.

Ultimately, the success of the Airside D terminal will depend on continued coordination between planners, contractors, regulators, and the traveling public. If executed effectively, it could set a new standard for regional airport development.

Conclusion

The Airside D terminal expansion at Tampa International Airport is more than just a construction project, it’s a strategic investment in the region’s future. With a price tag of $1.5 billion and a vision to handle up to 35 million passengers annually by 2037, the project reflects Tampa Bay’s growth and ambition. From cutting-edge design to community engagement and sustainability, every aspect of the terminal has been carefully considered.

As construction advances toward its 2028 completion date, the Airside D terminal will likely become a symbol of Tampa’s rising status as a transportation and economic hub. It underscores the importance of forward-thinking infrastructure in meeting the needs of a dynamic and expanding population.

FAQ

When will the Airside D terminal be completed?
The terminal is expected to be completed by 2028.

How much will the expansion cost?
The total projected cost is approximately $1.5 billion.

What improvements will the new terminal include?
Wider security lanes, transparent jet bridges, premium lounges, a modern international arrivals zone, and enhanced retail and dining options.

Why is this expansion necessary?
To accommodate increasing passenger volumes and support Tampa Bay’s population and tourism growth.

Who is leading the construction and design?
The project is being led by Hensel Phelps, HNTB, Gensler, and Crisdel Group.

Sources

• Tampa International Airport News
• Tampa International Airport Airside D
• FAA Passenger Data