Big changes are taking place at one of the Southwest Airlines‘biggest center. Maryland state officials announced major upgrades this week planned for Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). These changes will create a better experience for passengers waiting for their flight, not to mention when traveling between airport lounges and when waiting for their luggage.
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed on Wednesday a $332.5 million project package for BWI, which will be the most significant upgrade to the terminal in the airport’s history, officials said. said.
The projects include a major upgrade to Southwest’s central operations, including a new baggage system that means a more efficient baggage check-in and pick-up experience for passengers. That’s pretty important when you consider Southwest’s bag policy tolerance check, and the fact that this airline represents about 70% of BWI’s traffic.
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Many passengers will also notice improvements to be made in the air at the station. The project includes a direct connection between lines A and B, which will make it much easier for Southwest passengers to travel from one gate to another. Remember, as a major carrier hub, BWI is an important airport not only for departures and arrivals from passengers to and from the greater DC/Baltimore area, but also for the greater DC/Baltimore area. connecting flights.
The contract also calls for improvements to gate areas on stadiums, as well as improvements to franchise and shopping areas. So whether you’re moving between doors, grabbing something to eat or sitting and waiting for your flight, it’s going to be a more enjoyable experience.
Simply put, this means a major change for the airport and will “improve the passenger experience for decades to come,” Hogan said in a statement.
Related: BWI puts TPG on its list of 10 airports with great public transport options
Renders shared with TPG by BWI officials show the improved gate areas and concession areas that passengers will enjoy once the work is complete.
This work comes as Southwest is planning to consolidate its position in the largest hub in the Mid-Atlantic. The airport is working with the airline to build a new, 27-acre, $135 million maintenance facility that can hold up to three of its signature Boeing 737 planes.
Having a large on-site maintenance facility is key at an aviation hub, simplifying operations in the event of an aircraft mechanical failure.
Passengers will see these projects completed between late 2025 and summer 2026.
BWI is the 22nd of the nationnd The airport is busiest in terms of passenger volume in 2021 and busiest in the greater DC metropolitan area, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airport has welcomed more than 2.5 million flights Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and more than about two million Dulles International Airport (IAD).
