Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona has officially opened its US$28 million, five-gate terminal concourse. The 30,000 sq ft facility replaces a four-gate 10,000 sq ft portable building installed in 2008.
J Brian O’Neill, Gateway Airport Authority’s Executive Director and CEO, said: “The new South Concourse provides additional gates and capacity just in time to welcome hundreds of spring travellers to Arizona. The facility also positions Gateway Airport for continued passenger growth in the future.”
Funding for the new concourse was provided by a mix of sources, including grants from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FAA Airport Improvement Program, the State of Arizona and contributions from the six airport member communities.
Commenting at the ribbon cutting ceremony, Apache Junction Mayor and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority’s Board Chairman, Chip Wilson, said: “With nearly two million passengers choosing Gateway Airport each year, this new terminal expansion shows PMGAA’s commitment to enhancing the Just plane Easy travel experience at Gateway Airport.”
Last year was the busiest year in the airport’s history, with 1.9 million passengers travelling through its doors. The year on year growth over the last two years signals the need for improved infrastructure including a larger terminal and additional gates.
Mesa Mayor John Giles joined Wilson to emphasise the role the airport plays in influencing economic activity in the region, as he pointed out the airport contributes more than US$1.8 billion each year to the greater Phoenix economy. He added: “Expanding capacity at the airport unlocks new opportunities for both sun-seeking visitors and local air travellers.”
Now with a total of 11 gates, Gateway Airport is primed to sustain its remarkable growth trajectory. Allegiant now offers nonstop service to 45 destinations and plans to increase its summer flight schedule by an impressive 19%.
