Up, up, and away… Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is growing, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.

The airport is expected to see ~22 million passengers fly out of the airport this year, making it a record-breaking year. The airport was built in 1999 + originally designed to serve 11 million travelers annually.

This year, the airport has also welcomed new nonstop destinations and more flights.

Recent data showed more than 1.8 million passengers traveled through the airport in April, breaking yet another record. Compared to 2021, that’s a 121% increase.

Speaking of growth, now’s a good time to take a look at the airport’s 2040 Master Plan.

Virgin Atlantic launched a new direct flight from Austin to London this month, making it the airline’s first new route from the US in seven years. | Photo by @atx.spotter

What is it?

The FAA requires a Master Plan for regulation + to monitor grant assurances. It’s a vision for the future of the airport, preparing it for growth.

What terminal needs are listed in the airport’s Master Plan?

✈️ Additional ticketing, baggage, and security areas

✈️ 66 new gates

✈️ Ground Transportation Center

✈️ New taxiways + a connector tunnel

✈️ Barbara Jordan Terminal upgrades

Updates with the Barabara Jordan Terminal

New TSA security checkpoint was completed in December 2021
Construction on a new Baggage Handling System and remote busing gates are expected to begin this summer

The 2040 Master Plan also outlines a new terminal, additional airfield improvements, and 11,000 new parking spaces. Read more here.

There have been reports that the plan could be adjusted due to the airport’s growth — specific details have not been released at this time.

The Austin airport is also now one of four airports in North America to go carbon neutral.

Heading out to the airport soon? Check out live traffic updates on this map.