Largest BWI Terminal Enhancement Approved, Airport Will Expand Concourse Offerings

Press release from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport:

October 12, 2022

The Maryland Board of Public Works today unanimously approved a construction package for major terminal improvements at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to accommodate growth and enhance the air passenger experience. The Board, chaired at Wednesday’s session by Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford sitting in for Governor Larry Hogan, and with Treasurer Dereck Davis and Comptroller Peter Franchot, authorized a $332.5 million contract for the A/B Connector and Baggage Handling System Improvement at BWI Marshall. The multi-year construction project is the largest terminal enhancement ever for the airport.

“This significant investment at Maryland’s BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport supports trade and tourism, creates jobs and will improve the passenger experience for decades to come,” said Governor Hogan. “This is another example of how we’re ensuring BWI Marshall remains a convenient, efficient airport for passengers and a major economic generator for the state and region.”

The A/B Connector and Baggage Handling System improvements at BWI Marshall will bring a major upgrade to the center of operations for Southwest Airlines. Improvements advanced by the Board of Public Works will include a new, sophisticated baggage handling system, a direct connection between concourses A and B, expanded holdroom areas at passenger gates, new restrooms and added food and retail concessions space.

“The improvements approved today by the Board of Public Works will benefit the airport, our passengers and our largest airline partner,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary James F. Ports Jr. “BWI Marshall consistently ranks high with passengers for convenience, service and amenities, and this project will enhance our operations and support even more jobs.”

Southwest Airlines is the busiest carrier at BWI Thurgood Marshall, serving about 70% of the airport’s passenger traffic. BWI is one of the busiest airports in the airline’s network, and there are more than 4,000 Southwest employees in this market.

“We appreciate the support from the Governor, the Lt. Governor, the Treasurer and the Comptroller for this important project,” said Ricky Smith, Executive Director of BWI Marshall Airport. “BWI Marshall is a top economic driver for Maryland and the entire National Capital Region. This capital project will support airline service and improve the travel experience for our customers. The launch of this phase of the project marks a pivotal point in the airport’s recovery.”

This press release was produced by Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The views expressed here are the author’s own.