Norfolk International Airport Expands Concourse A with New Gates and Dining

This article is based on an official press release from Norfolk International Airport.

Norfolk International Airport (ORF) has unveiled a significant expansion to Concourse A, marking a major milestone in its multiyear TransformORF improvement program. The newly opened section introduces three additional gates and fresh, locally inspired dining options for travelers.

According to the official press release, this development closely follows the recent upgrade of the airport’s Federal Inspection Services facility, which began processing international arrivals via U.S. Customs and Border Protection last month.

As passenger traffic and airline operations evolve, these infrastructure enhancements aim to streamline the travel experience while bringing a distinct regional flavor to the Virginia terminal.

Concourse A Expansion and Airline Shifts

The Concourse A extension encompasses nearly 19,000 square feet spread across two stories. Passengers departing from the newly activated gates,A10, A11, and A12,will find an expansive seating area featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer unobstructed views of the airfield.

American Airlines is already utilizing the new gates. Furthermore, the airport noted in its release that Breeze Airways will transition its operations to Concourse A later this spring. This strategic relocation is designed to balance passenger flow and airline operations across the airport’s footprint.

Upgraded Passenger Amenities

Beyond the gates themselves, the expansion introduces practical amenities designed for modern travelers. The updated space includes additional restrooms and a dedicated indoor pet relief area, catering to the growing number of passengers traveling with service animals and pets.

A Focus on Local Flavor and Concessions

A central component of the TransformORF initiative is the revitalization of the airport’s retail and dining landscape. The center of the new Concourse A space features two new food and beverage concepts: High Tide Bar Bites and Town Center Cold Pressed. The latter represents the airport’s first partnership with the popular Virginia Beach-based coffee and juice café.

Travelers flying out of Concourse B will also see new offerings. Later this month, the airport will open Bruce Smith’s 200 Sack Club between gates B25 and B27. This first-of-its-kind bar and grill honors the Pro Football Hall of Fame member, who has deep ties to the region, having grown up in Norfolk and currently residing in Virginia Beach.

Concession Partnerships

These new dining options are the result of strategic partnerships with specialized concessionaires. High Tide Bar Bites and Town Center Cold Pressed are managed by New Jersey-based Faber, Coe & Gregg. Meanwhile, The Playmakers Group, known for operating athlete-themed airport restaurants, is behind Bruce Smith’s 200 Sack Club. Additionally, Switzerland-based Avolta AG is slated to introduce further retail and dining updates later this year as part of an airportwide enhancement.

Looking Ahead: Roadways, Rentals, and Security

The airport’s transformation extends beyond the terminal concourses. Work is currently underway to realign the campus roadways, a project intended to significantly improve vehicular traffic flow in and out of the airport.

According to the press release, further improvements are scheduled to break ground in 2026. These include an onsite consolidated car rental facility and the initial phases of a comprehensive terminal upgrade.

Notably, the airport plans to consolidate its passenger screening process to improve efficiency. As stated in the airport’s announcement:

…will soon relocate into a single TSA screening area for easier post-security movement between Concourses A and B.

AirPro News analysis

We view the TransformORF program as a necessary evolution for Norfolk International Airport as it adapts to shifting domestic airline strategies, particularly the growth of carriers like Breeze Airways. By planning to consolidate the TSA checkpoints and expanding gate capacity, ORF is addressing common pain points for modern travelers. Furthermore, the emphasis on local brands like Town Center Cold Pressed and Bruce Smith’s 200 Sack Club aligns with a broader aviation industry trend. Airports are increasingly moving away from generic concessions in favor of regional identity, which enhances the overall passenger experience and drives non-aeronautical revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TransformORF program?
TransformORF is a multiyear improvement program at Norfolk International Airport aimed at upgrading terminal facilities, expanding gate capacity, improving roadways, and enhancing passenger amenities and concessions.

Which airlines are using the new Concourse A gates?
American Airlines is currently using the new gates (A10, A11, and A12). Breeze Airways is scheduled to relocate to Concourse A later this spring to help balance operations.

What new dining options are available at ORF?
New options include High Tide Bar Bites and Town Center Cold Pressed in Concourse A, and the upcoming Bruce Smith’s 200 Sack Club in Concourse B.

Sources

• Norfolk International Airport Press Release