United Airlines, along with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and the U.S. Department of Transportation, announced a “transformation” of Washington Dulles International Airport with a capital investment program of more than $20 billion. The project, said the announcement, will transform the airport over the next decade into “a modern, world-class gateway reflecting the importance and global reach of the nation’s capital and enhancing the experience for millions of travelers.”
The airports authority and United, said the announcement, “will partner on this transformation to reshape many aspects of the Dulles journey, with new and modernized facilities designed to create a smoother, more efficient and elevated experience from curb to gate, while preserving architect Eero Saarinen’s iconic Main Terminal design.”
Travelers, said the announcement, can look forward to more than 5 million square feet of new or renovated space, including new and modernized concourses, an expanded and enhanced Main Terminal with more walkable access to gates, and new train service connecting the airport that will retire Dulles’ mobile lounge vehicles.
Scott Kirby, United’s CEO, said, “Washington Dulles is the gateway that connects the nation’s capital to the world, and this transformation builds on United’s long-term investment in our hub to deliver the world-class airport experience our employees, customers and millions of travelers deserve.”
Highlights of the project include:
- Enhanced entry into the airport, close-in parking facilities, “state-of-the-art” check-in areas and more efficient security screening;
- New and modernized concourses, including replacing the current C/D Concourse, with facilities that will support more and larger aircraft to fly to more destinations around the world;
- Additional gates that will give travelers more spacious, comfortable seating areas, dedicated work areas and amenities in bright, expansive settings;
- New AeroTrain connections and enhanced walkability, including a central walking tunnel, making it easier for travelers to move between the terminal, concourses and gates;
- A walkable path to a new, large U.S. Customs facility and improvements designed to make the international arrival experience easier;
- Improved baggage handling systems designed to help travelers get their luggage faster;
- Additional concessions and airport lounges, including more United Club space and plans for one of the largest United Polaris lounges in the world.
Significant modernization work is already underway, according to the announcement. Later this year, the new Concourse E will open with 14 new United gates that will help the airline expand its international network, provide direct access to the airport’s AeroTrain system and debut new and enhanced passenger lounges.
