Route Development
Tampa International Airport Approves $1.5B Airside D Terminal Design
Tampa International Airport approves final design for $1.5 billion Airside D terminal, adding 16 gates and new passenger amenities by 2029.
This article is based on an official press release from Tampa International Airport.
The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board of Directors has unanimously approved the final design for Airside D, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of Tampa International Airport (TPA). In a meeting held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Board greenlit the “100 percent design stage” for the facility, which represents the first new airside terminal constructed at the airport in nearly two decades.
According to official airport documentation, the project carries an estimated total cost of $1.528 billion. The new terminal is designed to accommodate the region’s rapid growth, adding 16 gates capable of serving both domestic and international wide-body aircraft. Airport officials state that this expansion is critical to increasing TPA’s capacity to 35 million annual passengers by 2037.
With the design phase now complete, the project is moving swiftly toward physical realization. Vertical construction is scheduled to begin later in 2026, with a targeted public opening in 2029.
The approved design, titled “Ascend,” is intended to reflect the character of the Tampa Bay region through an emphasis on natural light, panoramic views, and operational efficiency. The facility will span approximately 600,000 square feet across two levels plus a mezzanine.
The interior architecture focuses on reducing passenger stress through open spaces and soaring ceilings. A central concession area will offer 360-degree views of the airfield, a feature designed to enhance the connection between the traveler and the aviation environment. The mezzanine level is set to house two airline lounges, including a new Delta Sky Club, providing premium amenities for travelers.
In a statement regarding the vision for the new terminal, Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens emphasized the project’s broader significance:
“Airside D is more than a new terminal; it is a bold vision for the future of travel in Tampa Bay. Thanks to the dedication and collaboration of our TPA team and partners, we’re setting a new standard for innovation, service, and hospitality in our region.” Additional passenger amenities outlined in the approved plans include: Alongside the design approval, the Board authorized a $902 million supplemental contract for the construction phase. The project team is led by Design-Builder Hensel Phelps, with architecture and engineering services provided by HNTB Corporation and Gensler.
Sustainability remains a core component of the Airside D project. The terminal is pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, targeting a Silver or Gold rating. The design incorporates smart building technologies aimed at achieving a 10 percent reduction in Energy Use Intensity (EUI) compared to the airport’s 2018 baseline.
Notably, the project embraces circular economy principles regarding the site’s history. The original Airside D was demolished in 2007. According to project details, 100 percent of the concrete from that demolition, approximately 70,000 tons, is being crushed and recycled on-site to form the foundation of the new terminal.
The airport views this expansion as a vital economic engine for the region. TPA currently generates an estimated $14 billion in annual economic activity. To ensure local benefits from the $1.5 billion investment, the project includes specific goals for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE), set at 16 percent for design and 13 percent for construction.
While the headline is the massive Airside D expansion, we believe the Board’s simultaneous approval of the Main Terminal’s Ticketing Level renovation is equally critical. Adding 16 gates and millions of passengers would likely overwhelm existing landside infrastructure without this concurrent upgrade.
The approval of 28 new counter locations suggests that TPA is taking a holistic approach to growth, ensuring that the bottleneck does not simply shift from the runway to the check-in desk. By synchronizing the landside modernization with the airside expansion, TPA aims to preserve the high customer satisfaction scores that have defined its reputation, even as passenger volumes scale toward the 35 million mark.
When will the new Airside D open? How much will the project cost? What happened to the old Airside D? Which airlines will operate out of Airside D?
Tampa International Airport Approves Final Design for $1.5 Billion Airside D Terminal
The “Ascend” Design Concept
Passenger Experience and Amenities
Construction, Costs, and Sustainability
Environmental Responsibility
Economic Impact
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Construction is set to go vertical in 2026, with a grand opening scheduled for 2029.
The total project cost is estimated at $1.528 billion. The Board recently approved a $902 million supplemental contract for construction.
The original Airside D was closed and demolished in 2007. Its concrete foundation is being recycled to build the new terminal.
While specific airline assignments can change, the terminal is designed for both domestic and international flights. The inclusion of a new Delta Sky Club suggests a significant presence by Delta Air Lines.
Sources
Photo Credit: Tampa International Airport
Route Development
United Airlines Acquires Spirit’s Chicago O’Hare Gates for $30.2 Million
United Airlines agrees to buy two preferential-use gates at Chicago O’Hare from Spirit Airlines for $30.2 million, pending court approval in February 2026.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters.
United Airlines has reached an agreement to acquire two preferential-use gates at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) from Spirit Airlines, marking another significant shift in the competitive landscape of the major midwestern hub. According to reporting by Reuters, the deal is valued at approximately $30.2 million and was disclosed in a court filing on February 4, 2026.
The transaction comes as Spirit Airlines continues to navigate its Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring, a process that began in August 2025. By divesting these assets, the ultra-low-cost carrier aims to generate liquidity while streamlining its operational footprint. For United Airlines, the acquisition represents a strategic reinforcement of its position at one of its most critical fortress hubs.
While the agreement has been filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, it remains subject to judicial approval. A hearing to finalize the transaction is currently scheduled for February 24, 2026.
The motion filed by Spirit Airlines outlines the transfer of gates G12 and G14, both located in Terminal 3 at O’Hare. These are “preferential-use” gates, a designation that provides the leaseholder with significant control over scheduling and operations compared to common-use facilities. As noted in the court filings summarized by Reuters, United Airlines emerged as the successful bidder for these specific assets.
The purchase price of roughly $30.2 million aligns closely with recent market valuations for similar infrastructure at O’Hare. In December 2025, Spirit sold two other gates (G8 and G10) to American Airlines for a reported $30 million. This subsequent sale to United effectively concludes the liquidation of Spirit’s proprietary gate holdings at the airport.
“Spirit plans to continue flying a reduced schedule using ‘common-use’ gates…”
, Summary of court filings regarding Spirit’s operational plans
Despite the sale of its proprietary gates, Spirit Airlines has indicated it will not cease operations at Chicago O’Hare. Instead, the carrier intends to transition to common-use gates managed by the airport authority, allowing it to maintain a presence in the Chicago market albeit with a reduced schedule. This acquisition occurs against the backdrop of an intense “turf war” between United Airlines and American Airlines, both of which consider O’Hare a primary hub. Industry observers view United’s move as a defensive measure to prevent its rival from further expanding its footprint in Terminal 3.
United CEO Scott Kirby has previously emphasized the airline’s commitment to defending its market share in Chicago. While Kirby had earlier signaled a lack of interest in piecemeal asset acquisitions, the competitive pressure from American Airlines’ purchase of Spirit’s first set of gates likely necessitated a strategic reversal. Securing gates G12 and G14 ensures that United retains the infrastructure necessary to support its growth targets.
According to industry data, United is planning its largest-ever summer schedule at O’Hare for 2026, targeting approximately 750 daily departures. The addition of two preferential gates provides the physical capacity required to execute this high-frequency schedule efficiently.
The Value of Scarcity: In the context of “fortress hubs” like Chicago O’Hare, the value of a gate often exceeds its immediate book value. For United, paying a premium of $30.2 million is less about the physical jet bridge and more about blocking American Airlines from gaining two additional slots in a constrained environment. If American had acquired all four of Spirit’s gates, the balance of power in Terminal 3 could have shifted perceptibly.
Spirit’s Liquidity Focus: For Spirit, this sale is a textbook Chapter 11 maneuver. By converting fixed assets into cash ($60.2 million total from both O’Hare sales), the airline improves its balance sheet while shifting to a variable-cost model using common-use gates. This allows Spirit to keep the “dot on the map” for its route network without the heavy overhead of exclusive gate leases it can no longer fully utilize.
Is Spirit Airlines leaving Chicago O’Hare? Why did United Airlines buy these gates? When will the deal be finalized? How much did United pay for the gates? Sources: Reuters, U.S. Bankruptcy Court Filings (Southern District of New York)
United Airlines Moves to Acquire Spirit’s Remaining Chicago O’Hare Gates for $30.2 Million
Transaction Details and Asset Transfer
Strategic Implications for United Airlines
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While Spirit is selling its exclusive gates, it plans to continue serving O’Hare using common-use gates shared with other airlines.
United acquired the gates to support its expanded 2026 summer schedule and to prevent its primary competitor, American Airlines, from acquiring further capacity at the airport.
The transaction is pending court approval. A bankruptcy court hearing is scheduled for February 24, 2026, to approve the sale.
The deal is valued at approximately $30.2 million.
Photo Credit: World Aviation Festival
Route Development
Singapore Airshow 2026 Marks 20 Years as APAC Leads Aviation Growth
Singapore Airshow 2026 highlights APAC’s 52% share in global aviation growth, new Space Summit, SAF Levy, and advanced air mobility developments.
This article is based on an official press release from Experia Events via PR Newswire and additional industry data.
The Singapore Airshow is set to return for its 10th edition from February 3 to 8, 2026, at the Changi Exhibition Centre. Organized by Experia Events Pte Ltd, this upcoming iteration carries the theme “20 Years of Shaping the Aerospace Landscape,” celebrating two decades since the event established itself as a standalone strategic catalyst for the global aerospace and defense sectors.
According to the official announcement, the 2026 event arrives at a pivotal moment for the region. Industry data indicates that the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is projected to account for 52% of global aviation industry growth in 2025. This surge is driven by the world’s highest growth rates for both passenger and cargo traffic, cementing the airshow’s status as a critical marketplace for future aviation technology and policy.
The timing of the 2026 Airshow aligns with a massive resurgence in regional demand. Research data cited in reports surrounding the event highlights that APAC airlines are forecast to see a 9% year-on-year increase in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK) in 2025. Furthermore, passenger load factors are projected to reach 84.4%, an all-time high for the region, signaling robust demand and capacity constraints that airlines must address.
While passenger travel rebounds, the cargo sector remains resilient. Despite global trade complexities, APAC air cargo demand reportedly grew by 5.6% in 2025, fueled largely by e-commerce expansion and supply chain adaptations. To support this volume, the region is undertaking significant infrastructure projects, including the development of Changi Airport Terminal 5 and upgrades at major hubs in India and the Philippines.
Beyond traditional commercial and defense aviation, the 2026 edition will expand its scope to address emerging sectors that are redefining the industry.
Preceding the main exhibition, the inaugural Space Summit will take place from February 2–3, 2026. With the global space economy projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, this summit will focus on “New Frontiers: Shaping a Responsible and Inclusive Space Future.” Key topics will include treating satellites as critical national infrastructure, navigating dual-use technologies, and utilizing earth observation data for climate resilience.
“The global space economy is growing at record rates… Singapore’s established role as a hub for aerospace and technology makes it the natural home for the Space Summit.”
, Experia Events Press Statement
A central policy focus for the 2026 show will be the implementation of Singapore’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Levy. Originally announced at the 2024 show, this mechanism charges a levy on departing passengers to fund the purchase of SAF, aiming for a 1% uplift target in 2026. This initiative positions Singapore as a policy leader in the region, moving the industry from voluntary pledges to mandatory market mechanisms.
Building on momentum from 2024, which saw participation from major eVTOL players like Supernal and Lilium, the 2026 edition is expected to feature operational prototypes. Discussions will likely center on the regulatory frameworks required to integrate electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft into dense urban airspace.
The “20 Years” milestone commemorates the show’s evolution since its inauguration in 2008. The event has transitioned from the “Superconnector” era of 2010–2018,defined by massive widebody orders from Gulf and Asian carriers,to a more diversified platform focusing on technology and sustainability.
The economic footprint of the event is significant. According to post-event data, the 2024 edition generated over S$391 million in economic activity. Organizers expect the 2026 edition to match or exceed this figure, with projected attendance surpassing the record of approximately 60,000 trade visitors set in 2024.
“The key here is not just the numbers. We have 90% of the top 20 global aerospace companies here… making this a very good platform to discuss the future of aviation.”
, Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia Events
The shift in focus for the Singapore Airshow 2026 reflects a broader maturation in the Asian aerospace market. In previous decades, the headlines were dominated almost exclusively by order book totals,how many hundreds of jets were sold to rapidly expanding carriers. While fleet renewal remains vital, the inclusion of a dedicated Space Summit and the operational start of the SAF levy suggests that stakeholders are now prioritizing infrastructure resilience and regulatory leadership over pure capacity expansion.
We observe that Singapore is leveraging this event to secure its role not just as a transit hub, but as a “policy sandbox” for the region. By mandating SAF usage and hosting high-level space dialogues, the Airshow is pivoting to become a forum where the rules of the next generation of aerospace are written, rather than just a showroom where hardware is bought.
When is the Singapore Airshow 2026? Where is the event located? What is the “Weekend@Airshow”?
Singapore Airshow 2026 to Mark 20-Year Milestone as APAC Leads Global Aviation Growth
Asia-Pacific: The Engine of Global Aviation
New Frontiers: Space, Sustainability, and Mobility
The Inaugural Space Summit 2026
Sustainability and the SAF Levy
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
Historical Legacy and Economic Impact
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The event runs from February 3 to 8, 2026. The first four days are typically reserved for trade visitors, while the final weekend (Feb 7-8) usually opens to the public.
It will be held at the Changi Exhibition Centre in Singapore.
This is the public access portion of the event, featuring aerial displays from air forces and commercial manufacturers, along with family-friendly activities.
Sources
Photo Credit: Singapore Airshow
Route Development
Unifi Aviation Expands into Europe with Dutch Handler Viggo Acquisition
Unifi Aviation acquires Dutch ground handler Viggo, expanding into continental Europe and gaining proprietary technology for aviation services.
This article is based on an official press release from Unifi Aviation.
Unifi Aviation, the largest ground handling provider in North America, has officially announced its expansion into the continental European market through the acquisition of Viggo, a Netherlands-based aviation services company. The transaction, announced on January 29, 2026, marks a significant milestone in Unifi’s global growth strategy, moving the company beyond its established strongholds in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
According to the company’s announcement, the deal brings Viggo’s 50-plus years of experience and approximately 1,300 employees under the Unifi umbrella. While the financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, the strategic intent is clear: Unifi is leveraging Viggo’s specialized market position to establish a foothold in the competitive European aviation sector.
Unifi Aviation, part of the Argenbright Group, currently reports annual revenues exceeding $1.8 billion and employs a workforce of over 40,000 people across more than 220 airports. This acquisition continues a trend of aggressive inorganic growth for the Atlanta-based company, following its 2024 acquisition of Prospect Airport Services and its 2023 entry into the UK market via Up & Away.
Viggo operates as a critical player in the Dutch market, handling over 75,000 flights annually. The company holds a unique position as the exclusive ground handler at Eindhoven Airport (EIN), a regional hub that guarantees stable market share. Additionally, Viggo operates at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), where it serves major international carriers including Transavia, Air Europa, Icelandair, ITA Airways, and Etihad.
In a statement regarding the acquisition, Unifi CEO Gautam Thakkar emphasized the cultural and operational alignment between the two organizations.
“Viggo reflects what we look for in organizations, a strong commitment to putting people first and delivering exceptional service. This acquisition represents an important step in Unifi’s global growth strategy.”
, Gautam Thakkar, CEO of Unifi Aviation
Martijn Limburg, CEO of Viggo, noted that the merger would enhance reliability for their airline partners. “By combining Viggo’s capabilities and strong presence in the Netherlands with Unifi’s global scale, we are well positioned to provide our airline partners with additional support and long-term reliability.”
, Martijn Limburg, CEO of Viggo
At AirPro News, we observe that this acquisition offers Unifi more than just a geographic footprint; it provides access to proprietary technology that aligns with the company’s focus on operational predictability. Viggo is distinct among ground handlers for its “Smart Solutions” division, which utilizes data-driven tools like ViCap for capacity planning and ShiftGenerator for workforce optimization.
The integration of these technologies could allow Unifi to export Dutch efficiency models across its vast North American network. Furthermore, the acquisition alters the competitive landscape in the Netherlands. By absorbing Viggo, Unifi instantly becomes a credible challenger to global giants such as Swissport, dnata, and Menzies Aviation, particularly at Schiphol where Viggo has positioned itself as a high-service alternative to mass-market handlers.
It is also important to clarify for our readers that the acquired entity is Viggo Eindhoven Airport B.V., the ground handling specialist. This transaction is unrelated to the Danish company also named Viggo, which operates an electric ride-hailing service.
What does Viggo do? Does this deal include new technology for Unifi? Who owns Unifi Aviation? Sources: PR Newswire
Unifi Aviation Enters Continental Europe with Strategic Acquisition of Dutch Handler Viggo
Operational Scale and Market Impact
Leadership Commentary
AirPro News Analysis: Technology and Market Positioning
Frequently Asked Questions
Viggo is a Dutch ground handling company providing passenger and ramp services. It is the exclusive handler at Eindhoven Airport and also operates at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
Yes. Viggo is known for its “Smart Solutions” software, including data tools for predicting passenger flows and optimizing staff shifts, which Unifi may integrate into its broader operations.
Unifi Aviation is part of the Argenbright Group, a privately held provider of workforce solutions in human capital-intensive industries.
Photo Credit: Unifi
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