Pittsburgh International Airport reports record passenger growth as new terminal nears completion

USA. Pittsburgh International Airport has recorded a landmark year in passenger numbers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels as its Terminal Modernisation Project (TMP) nears completion.

The ambitious US$1.1 billion transformation initiative, now 80% finished, is set to redefine the airport experience when it opens later this year.

The TMP is designed to modernise the airport’s infrastructure, introducing a new consolidated terminal and improving operational efficiency and the passenger journey.

The project’s key objectives include reducing wait and walking times, improving baggage handling, streamlining international arrivals, lowering operational costs, increasing public parking and embedding sustainable practices into airport operations.

Pittsburgh International Airport welcomed 9.95 million passengers in 2024, surpassing the previous peak in 2019 by +8.1%. This marks the first time the airport has exceeded pre-pandemic traffic levels.

More than 9.7 million passengers began or concluded their journeys at Pittsburgh International Airport last year.

International traffic also experienced robust growth, reaching over 195,000 passengers in 2024, a +30% increase compared to 2023. This growth was fuelled by Icelandair’s introduction of seasonal flights to Reykjavik in May and British Airways’ expansion of its year-round London Heathrow service.

Further international expansion is anticipated in 2025, with British Airways upgrading its London Heathrow flights to daily from 30 March and Icelandair resuming Reykjavik services on 17 April, a month earlier than in 2024.

Progress on the TMP has accelerated into 2024, with construction reaching 80% completion.

The project is being delivered in collaboration with the Allegheny County Airport Authority and adheres to three core design principles: nature, technology and community.

The terminal will have three levels with a commercial curb at ground level, Arrivals on the second floor and Departures on the third floor.

It will feature four outdoor terraces – two before and two after security; flooring with tree column motifs and leaf-inspired designs by artist Clayton Merrell reflecting Western Pennsylvania’s natural landscape. In addition, a ceiling installation of 4,000 constellation lights will create a night-sky effect in the terminal.

Additionally, the terminal will feature a new 5,000-space parking structure and optimised roadway system that will improve ground transportation access. Integrated technology will enhance security and baggage operations.

The TMP places a strong emphasis on accessibility, incorporating raised crosswalks with enhanced lighting, accessible-height ticketing counters, digital wayfinding with audio and visual cues, and intuitive layouts to facilitate passenger navigation. Outdoor spaces will integrate biophilic design elements, reinforcing the airport’s commitment to passenger comfort and sustainability.

The airport has established itself as a leader in inclusive travel with initiatives such as Presley’s Place, one of the USA’s first sensory rooms for travellers with autism and sensory sensitivities. The TMP will build upon this legacy and create a more inclusive and welcoming airport environment, the airport said.

At the helm of the transformation is Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis. Recently named Pittsburgher of the Year by Pittsburgh Magazine, Cassotis has been a driving force behind the airport’s evolution.