This article is based on an official announcement from Myrtle Beach International Airport and supporting project data. See the original release for full details.

Myrtle Beach International Airports Unveils Major Concourse A Expansion

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) officially opened its newly expanded Concourse A on December 2, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the facility’s history. The expansion, which adds six new gates to the terminal, is designed to alleviate congestion and elevate the passenger experience amidst record-breaking travel demand in the Grand Strand region.

According to an official announcement on the airport’s social media channels, the grand opening celebration highlighted the completion of a project that introduces modern amenities, enhanced dining options, and updated infrastructure. The expansion brings the airport’s total gate count to 18, a 50% increase in capacity that officials state is critical for the airport’s future operations.

Project Scope and Investment

The Concourse A expansion represents a substantial investment in South Carolina’s aviation infrastructure. Based on project data, the initiative cost approximately $90 million, funded through a combination of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants, state funding, and airport revenues. The construction, managed by a joint venture involving JE Dunn Construction, expanded the terminal footprint by approximately 50,000 square feet.

Groundbreaking for the project took place in June 2024, and the facility was completed on schedule in December 2025. The design, led by the architectural firm Gresham Smith, focuses on modernizing the terminal while retaining a sense of place connected to the coastal environment.

Key Infrastructure Upgrades

The centerpiece of the new concourse is a double-height glass curtain wall that offers panoramic views of the runway and airfield. To manage the South Carolina sun, the façade utilizes electrochromic “smart glass” technology, which automatically tints to reduce glare and heat gain, improving energy efficiency and passenger comfort.

Interior improvements include:

• Flooring: New terrazzo flooring designed to withstand high foot traffic.
• Restrooms: Larger, modernized restrooms featuring glass wall cladding.
• Seating: Holdrooms equipped with powered seating and countertop charging tables.
• Wayfinding: Updated signage and flight information displays to streamline passenger flow.

Enhancing the Passenger Experience

Beyond structural improvements, the expansion aims to upgrade the commercial offerings available to travelers. The new space includes designated areas for retail and dining, reflecting a mix of local and national brands.

According to airport reports, the expansion facilitates the introduction of new concessions. Notable additions planned or recently introduced include the first Starbucks in a South Carolina airport, a “Salt & Tide” beer and wine bar, and a location for the local favorite Pizza Hyena, expected to open fully in 2025.

In the official announcement, the airport team expressed gratitude to the partners involved:

“A heartfelt thank you to the incredible teams, partners, and community members whose dedication and hard work made this project a reality — and to everyone who joined us today to celebrate this exciting milestone.”

, Myrtle Beach International Airport Statement

Strategic Context and Growth

The expansion was necessitated by a surge in passenger traffic that has outpaced previous projections. In 2024, MYR set a new record with over 3.8 million passengers, representing a nearly 14% increase from the prior year. As a primary economic engine for the Grand Strand, the airport’s ability to process travelers efficiently is vital for the region’s tourism industry.

By increasing the number of gates from 12 to 18, the airport can now accommodate more frequent flights from existing airline partners such as Spirit, Southwest, American, and Delta, while also providing the infrastructure needed to attract new carriers.

AirPro News Analysis

The completion of the Concourse A expansion at MYR highlights a broader trend among regional U.S. airports adapting to post-pandemic travel patterns. Leisure-heavy destinations like Myrtle Beach have seen sustained demand that often exceeds legacy infrastructure capabilities. By investing in “smart” building technologies and upgraded concessions, MYR is positioning itself not just as a transit hub, but as a competitive entry point for high-value tourism. The use of electrochromic glass and spacious holdrooms suggests a shift toward prioritizing passenger well-being, a necessary evolution as regional airports compete for airline route allocations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new gates were added?
The expansion added six new gates (A7 through A12), bringing the total number of gates at MYR to 18.

What is the “smart glass” feature?
The new curtain wall uses electrochromic glazing, which tints automatically to control sunlight, glare, and heat, reducing the need for window shades and lowering energy costs.

Who designed the new concourse?
The architectural design was led by Gresham Smith, with construction management by JE Dunn Construction.

When did the new concourse open?
The grand opening was celebrated on December 2, 2025.

Sources: FlyMyrtleBeach (Official Facebook), Gresham Smith, JE Dunn Construction, FlyMyrtleBeach.com