Route Development
Ontario International Airport Adopts New Use and Lease Agreement for Growth
Ontario International Airport updates its Use and Lease Agreement to enhance airline collaboration and support infrastructure investments.
Ontario International Airport Approves New Use and Lease Agreement
Ontario International Airport (ONT), a rapidly growing aviation hub in Southern California, has taken a significant step toward sustainable development and operational efficiency by adopting a new Use and Lease Agreement (ULA). This updated agreement, approved by the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) on July 24, 2025, replaces a decades-old framework and introduces a hybrid financial model designed to foster collaboration with airlines and support long-term infrastructure investments.
ONT’s evolution from a secondary airport under Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) to an independently managed facility has been marked by steady growth in both passenger and cargo traffic. The new ULA reflects this transformation, offering a more flexible, transparent, and forward-looking approach to airport-airline relations. With immediate implementation, the agreement sets the stage for ONT to continue its upward trajectory amid regional economic expansion and shifting aviation trends.
In this article, we explore the historical context, key components, and broader implications of ONT’s new ULA, while also examining how it aligns with global airport management practices.
Background: ONT’s Journey and the Need for Change
ONT’s Transition to Local Control
Located approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, ONT was historically managed by LAWA. However, after years of underperformance and declining passenger numbers, local stakeholders advocated for a shift in governance. In 2016, management of the airport was officially transferred to the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA), a move that catalyzed a period of revitalization and growth.
Since the transition, ONT has emerged as a key player in the Southern California aviation market. Passenger traffic increased from 4.2 million in 2016 to over 7 million in 2024, reflecting a 67% rise. This resurgence has been supported by investments in infrastructure, expanded airline services, and a focus on customer experience.
ONT’s strategic location within the Inland Empire, a region with over 18 million residents, has positioned it as a preferred alternative to larger, more congested airports like LAX. The airport’s growing reputation for efficiency and convenience has further underscored the need for a modernized operational framework.
Limitations of the 1999 Agreement
The previous ULA, established in 1999 under LAWA’s oversight, was ill-suited for ONT’s current operational model. It lacked flexibility, imposed outdated financial structures, and did not reflect the airport’s independent status or evolving market dynamics. As ONT expanded its services and infrastructure, the constraints of the old agreement became increasingly apparent.
Airport officials and airline partners recognized the necessity of a new agreement that could accommodate growth, encourage investment, and streamline decision-making processes. This led to a collaborative effort between OIAA leadership, financial experts, and airline stakeholders to draft a more adaptive and mutually beneficial arrangement.
The result is a new ULA that not only modernizes ONT’s financial and operational framework but also aligns with best practices observed at leading international airports.
Strategic Objectives of the New ULA
The updated agreement is designed to achieve several key goals: enhance financial sustainability, improve airline relationships, and support infrastructure development. It introduces a hybrid revenue model, provides mechanisms for airline input on capital projects, and allocates a significant portion of ground transportation revenue to participating carriers.
These provisions aim to create a balanced environment where both the airport and its airline partners can thrive. By aligning incentives and promoting transparency, the ULA lays the foundation for continued growth and innovation.
As ONT prepares for future challenges and opportunities, the new agreement serves as a critical tool for navigating the complexities of modern airport management.
“This agreement reflects years of collaboration and positions ONT to grow responsibly. It’s a win for airlines, passengers, and the communities we serve.” — Alan D. Wapner, OIAA President
Key Features and Impacts of the New Agreement
Hybrid Financial Model and Revenue Allocation
One of the most significant changes introduced by the new ULA is the adoption of a hybrid financial model. This model allows ONT to retain unrestricted funds, which can be allocated to future capital projects without requiring immediate cost recovery from airlines. In Year 1 alone, unrestricted deposits are projected to reach $28 million, with expectations of growing to $45 million over time.
In addition, the agreement stipulates that 75% of ground transportation revenue will be distributed to participating airlines. This revenue-sharing mechanism incentivizes airline engagement and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for the airport’s financial health.
These financial provisions provide ONT with greater flexibility to plan and execute infrastructure projects, respond to market changes, and maintain competitive cost structures for airline partners.
Infrastructure Development and Capital Planning
The ULA includes a provision requiring airline approval for major capital projects exceeding a certain financial threshold, which is adjusted annually for inflation. This ensures that large-scale investments are subject to stakeholder review, promoting accountability and alignment between ONT and its partners.
One of the first initiatives under the new agreement is the upgrade of Runway 26R’s Instrument Landing System (ILS). The project, with a budget of $15.75 million, aims to enhance safety and operational reliability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Such projects not only improve airport functionality but also contribute to regional economic development by creating jobs and attracting new businesses to the area.
Operational Flexibility and Airline Engagement
The agreement offers flexible lease terms and clearer guidelines for terminal usage, making it easier for ONT to attract new carriers and retain existing ones. Airlines benefit from predictable cost structures and a more collaborative approach to operations.
Major carriers such such as Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Frontier Airlines currently account for the majority of ONT’s passenger traffic. The new ULA supports efforts to expand international routes and enhance service offerings, particularly to destinations in Mexico, Central America, and Asia-Pacific.
By fostering a more cooperative environment, the agreement strengthens ONT’s position as a competitive and attractive option for both domestic and international airlines.
Wider Industry Context and Future Outlook
Global Trends in Use and Lease Agreements
ONT’s new agreement reflects a broader industry shift toward more adaptive and collaborative ULA models. Airports around the world are moving away from rigid, long-term leases in favor of shorter, flexible arrangements that can better respond to market volatility and evolving airline needs.
For example, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport has introduced new fee structures to support sustainability initiatives, while Hong Kong International Airport has implemented advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency. These trends highlight the importance of aligning financial frameworks with strategic objectives.
ONT’s hybrid model and emphasis on airline collaboration position it well within this global context, enabling the airport to remain agile and competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Technological Innovation and Smart Airport Initiatives
ONT’s focus on infrastructure modernization aligns with the growing adoption of smart airport technologies. Innovations such as biometric check-in systems, autonomous baggage handling, and AI-driven passenger flow management are becoming standard at leading airports.
By investing in these technologies, ONT can enhance the passenger experience, reduce operational costs, and improve overall efficiency. This is particularly important as the airport continues to expand its services and accommodate increasing traffic volumes.
Future projects may include digital wayfinding systems, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and integrated data platforms for real-time decision-making.
Regional Advantages and Competitive Positioning
ONT’s strategic location and operational model offer several advantages over larger regional airports. Shorter wait times, lower fees, and a customer-friendly environment make it an appealing choice for travelers and airlines alike.
While major hubs like LAX are still recovering from pandemic-related disruptions, ONT has surpassed pre-pandemic passenger levels and continues to grow. This resilience underscores the effectiveness of its management strategy and the potential of the new ULA to sustain momentum.
As the Inland Empire continues to develop as a logistics and business center, ONT is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and solidify its role as a regional economic driver.
Conclusion
The adoption of a new Use and Lease Agreement marks a pivotal moment in Ontario International Airport’s evolution. By introducing a hybrid financial model, streamlining capital project approvals, and fostering stronger airline partnerships, the agreement lays the foundation for long-term growth and operational excellence.
As ONT continues to expand its services and infrastructure, the new ULA will play a critical role in ensuring that development is strategic, sustainable, and aligned with industry best practices. With a clear vision and a collaborative approach, ONT is poised to become one of the most innovative and efficient mid-sized airports in the United States.
FAQ
What is the purpose of ONT’s new Use and Lease Agreement?
The new agreement modernizes ONT’s financial and operational framework, promoting flexibility, transparency, and collaboration with airlines.
How does the hybrid financial model work?
It allows ONT to retain unrestricted funds for future capital projects while sharing 75% of ground transportation revenue with airlines.
What are the immediate benefits of the agreement?
The ULA enhances lease flexibility, accelerates capital improvements like the Runway 26R ILS upgrade, and supports airline engagement.
How does ONT compare to other regional airports?
ONT offers shorter lines, lower fees, and has surpassed pre-pandemic passenger levels, making it a competitive alternative to LAX.
Sources:
PR Newswire,
ONT Official Website,
International Airport Review,
ONT Passenger Data,
OIAA Meeting Packet,
Celeste Heinonen Profile,
HSTalks,
Kaplan Kirsch
Photo Credit: JGM
Route Development
DFW Airport Opens First Four Terminal A Gates in 2026
DFW Airport opens gates A10-A15 for American Airlines as part of its $12 billion DFW Forward capital improvement program.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and American Airlines have commenced operations at the first four gates of the Terminal A Pier Expansion, marking a tangible milestone in the airport’s $12 billion capital improvement program.
Announced in a press release on October 21, 2026, the opening of gates A10, A11, A13, and A15 follows a multi-year construction effort that utilized prefabricated modular building techniques to minimize disruption at the world’s second-busiest airport. American Airlines began operating flights from the new gates in mid-October 2026.
Modular construction minimizes airfield disruption
The Terminal A project adds 140,000 square feet to the existing footprint and will ultimately feature 10 gates, comprising five rebuilt and five net-new positions. The remaining six gates are expected to open to travelers during the 2026 winter holiday season.
To execute the expansion without shutting down active terminal areas, contractors utilized an industry-first modular construction method. In 2024, crews transported seven pre-built modules over 1.5 miles across the active airfield to the Terminal A project site. Prior to transport, 65% of the Mechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) work was already completed on the modules.
The expanded pier features wider thoroughfares, taller ceilings, brighter windows, intuitive wayfinding, new concessions, and updated restrooms designed to accommodate higher passenger volumes.
The $12 billion DFW Forward initiative
The Terminal A Pier Expansion is a central component of DFW Forward, a historic $12 billion capital improvement program designed to modernize aging facilities and accommodate future passenger growth at the North Texas hub.
The Terminal A expansion follows earlier 2026 milestones within the DFW Forward program. This includes the opening of nine new and rebuilt gates in Terminal C, which also utilized prefabricated modular construction transported across the airfield.
Airports globally are increasingly turning to modular and prefabricated construction to execute major capital projects. DFW’s deployment of this method for both the Terminal A and Terminal C expansions sets a precedent for large-scale infrastructure upgrades in constrained, high-traffic aviation environments.
American Airlines’ footprint in North Texas
DFW serves as the largest hub for American Airlines, which is headquartered in nearby Fort Worth, Texas. The carrier accounts for approximately 82% of the airport’s commercial passenger traffic, operating over 900 peak-day flights to 230 destinations.
The scale of the operation has a substantial regional impact. According to an August 2026 study by Texas Christian University (TCU), American Airlines’ DFW hub supports approximately $70 billion in annual economic output and sustains 350,000 jobs across the North America region.
The infrastructure upgrades are necessary to support this volume. DFW handled 85.7 million passengers in 2025, ranking it as the second-busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and the third-busiest by aircraft movements.
AirPro News analysis
We view DFW’s successful deployment of modular construction across both Terminal A and Terminal C as a blueprint for other constrained mega-hubs. As passenger volumes push past 2019 peaks, operators can no longer afford to take large sections of terminal space offline for years at a time. By shifting the majority of the mechanical and electrical work off-site, DFW has demonstrated that capacity expansion and continuous hub operations are not mutually exclusive.
Photo Credit: DFW Airport
Route Development
United Airlines Opens Terminal B North Concourse at IAH
United Airlines opens a 765,000-sq-ft concourse at IAH with 22 gates, completing a $2.6B terminal overhaul.
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (UAL) has officially opened its new 765,000-square-foot Terminal B North Concourse at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), completing the centerpiece of a $2.6 billion infrastructure overhaul.
Previewed on October 21, 2026, and opened to the public on October 22, 2026, the facility introduces 22 mainline gates and the largest United Club in the Americas. According to a company press release, the expansion increases the carrier’s peak travel date capacity in Houston by 40% compared to 2023.
Upgraded passenger facilities and mainline capacity
The new three-level concourse replaces outdated infrastructure with 22 mainline gates, all equipped with jet bridges to accommodate larger aircraft. The architectural and operational upgrades are designed to streamline passenger flow and reduce congestion during peak departure banks.
A major focal point of the development is the 54,000-square-foot United Club. With a seating capacity of 800, it is now the largest lounge operated by any airline in the Americas. The terminal also incorporates local Houston dining brands, including B&B Butchers & Restaurant, Rosie Cannonball, Pizaro’s Pizza, Blood Bros. BBQ, Katz Coffee, and Blue Bell Creameries. The public spaces feature 10 major art installations and 11 sets of restrooms.
“I want our customers to start their vacation the minute they show up at the airport and Terminal B North sets a new standard for facilities across the country,” said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby.
Funding and execution of the Terminal B Transformation Program
The opening of the North Concourse represents the most significant milestone in the broader Terminal B Transformation Program. The original Terminal B opened in 1969, and its infrastructure had become undersized for modern mainline aircraft operations and current passenger volumes.
United Airlines and the Houston Airport System (HAS) formally announced the $2.6 billion modernization initiative on November 7, 2023. The project secured critical municipal backing on March 6, 2024, when the Houston City Council voted to allocate $150 million toward the city’s portion of the expansion under a Memorandum of Agreement.
Once subsequent improvements to the South Concourse are completed, United will operate a total of 48 gates across Terminal B.
Kirby emphasized that the airline’s strategy extends beyond fleet modernization. “Houston is great example of our focus on the overall customer experience,” Kirby stated. “Yes, we’re investing in new aircraft, products and technology here, but we’re also focused on improving the infrastructure, building new concourses, baggage systems and training and maintenance facilities for our employees.”
Strategic growth at the Houston hub
United Airlines is the largest carrier globally as measured by available seat miles, and Houston serves as one of its primary domestic and international hubs. The airline is the largest operator at IAH, managing more than 500 daily departures and employing over 14,000 people in the region.
The completion of the North Concourse builds on a sustained period of capital expenditure by the carrier in Texas. Since 2015, United has invested $3.5 billion into its facilities and operations at IAH.
The immediate operational impact of the new concourse is a 40% increase in the number of passengers the airline can accommodate on peak travel dates in 2026, alleviating previous capacity constraints at the hub and supporting future schedule growth.
Photo Credit: United Airlines
Route Development
OKC Airport Plans 25-Year Expansion to 20 Million Passengers
Will Rogers International Airport unveils a phased master plan to quadruple capacity to 20 million annual passengers by 2050.
Oklahoma City officials have unveiled a 25-year master plan for Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) designed to quadruple annual passenger capacity to 20 million. The phased expansion aims to accommodate rapid regional growth and prepare the facility for international traffic ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Announced on October 13 in a city press release, the “Cleared for Takeoff” initiative outlines a demand-driven approach to infrastructure investment. Rather than relying on strict calendar dates, major construction phases will be triggered by specific passenger volume milestones, ensuring the airport scales its landside and airside facilities in step with actual utilization.
Phased infrastructure triggers
Will Rogers International Airport currently serves a baseline of 4.6 million passengers annually. The new master plan establishes a roadmap to handle future demand through three primary expansion phases.
Phase 1 will activate when annual passenger traffic approaches the 6 million mark. This initial stage focuses heavily on landside improvements, including the addition of 1,538 new parking spaces housed within a five-level structure. Phase 2 will commence when the airport reaches 8 million annual passengers. This stage includes an approximate 550-foot extension of the curbside frontage and expands the terminal to support between 24 and 26 gates. Notably, this phase incorporates at least one designated position for widebody aircraft.
The fully realized Phase 3 vision scales the facility to a total of 40 gates and widens the curbside layout to six lanes. Director of Airports Jeff Mulder stated in the release that the plan outlines the trajectory for long-term growth.
“This is a monumental step toward balancing our landside facilities with airside terminal capacity, elevating passenger processing, and ensuring Oklahoma City remains seamlessly connected to the global economy,” Mulder said.
Preparing for international traffic and LA28
The long-term expansion strategy follows a 25% increase in passenger traffic at the airport over the past decade, according to reporting by KGOU. Local leaders are prioritizing infrastructure to maintain momentum in air service development.
“We have to plan and prepare for that growth at our airport, because we never want to decline new air service due to inadequate infrastructure,” Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt told KGOU.
While the major terminal expansions are tied to future passenger milestones, several near-term upgrade projects are already underway. Terminal flooring upgrades began in September 2026, and a rehabilitation of Terminal Drive is scheduled to commence in mid-October 2026. The airport anticipates completing restroom renovations by December 2027, followed by the conclusion of the flooring upgrades in January 2028 and the Terminal Drive project in February 2028.
These immediate improvements align with Oklahoma City’s preparations to host the canoe slalom and softball events for the LA28 Olympic Games, scheduled for July 14 to 30, 2028. To support the anticipated influx of international visitors, the airport recently constructed a new customs area. This facility will process the airport’s first nonstop international flights, which are expected to launch in November 2026.
AirPro News analysis
The inclusion of widebody gates and international customs facilities at Will Rogers International Airport reflects a broader strategic shift among mid-sized US regional airports. As secondary cities experience sustained population and economic growth, local aviation authorities are investing heavily to bypass traditional hub-and-spoke constraints and secure direct international connectivity. For Oklahoma City, the impending 2028 Olympic events serve as a catalyst to accelerate these capabilities, positioning the airport to handle larger aircraft and diverse global traffic long after the games conclude.
Photo Credit: OKC Airport
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