Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is poised for a dramatic transformation, embarking on a $5 billion expansion to nearly double its capacity. The project isn't just about adding space; it’s a response to a surge in travelers that has pushed the airport to its limits, signaling a new era for air travel in the Texas capital.
By the mid-2030s, 32 new gates will rise from the landscape, spread across two entirely new concourses – a 26-gate Concourse B and a six-gate Concourse M. This massive undertaking will also include vital new taxiways and supporting infrastructure, designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing airport layout.
Currently, AUS operates with 34 gates across its terminal and Concourse A. The addition of these new facilities will alleviate congestion and accommodate the growing demand for air travel, promising a smoother experience for passengers.
Southwest Airlines, the dominant carrier at AUS, stands to benefit significantly, securing eight additional gates for a total of 18 within the new Concourse B. This expansion solidifies their presence and allows for continued growth in the region.
Delta Air Lines, rapidly expanding its footprint in Austin and challenging Southwest’s long-held dominance, will also see a substantial increase, gaining 11 gates for a total of 15 in Concourse A. This strategic move underscores Delta’s commitment to becoming a major player in the Texas market.
American, United, and Alaska Airlines will also receive increased gate allocations, while eleven gates will remain flexible, available to a diverse range of both domestic and international carriers, including partners like Aeromexico, KLM, and WestJet.
The need for this expansion is undeniable. Through November 2025, AUS welcomed nearly 19.8 million passengers – a staggering 25% increase compared to the same period in 2019. This explosive growth has strained existing facilities, making the expansion not just desirable, but essential.
Delta has spearheaded much of this growth, increasing seat capacity by an impressive 80% over the past six years. Southwest followed with a 66% increase, while American and United also experienced significant gains, demonstrating the widespread demand for air travel through Austin.
AUS isn’t alone in responding to this post-pandemic travel boom. Airports across the nation are undertaking similar expansions. Dallas Fort Worth broke ground on a new terminal, and Denver International recently completed a 39-gate expansion, with another 11 gates already planned.
Los Angeles, New York’s JFK, and Dulles International near Washington, D.C., are all experiencing major terminal and concourse overhauls, recognizing the need to adapt to the evolving demands of modern air travel.
The AUS expansion will unfold in phases. A three-gate extension to Concourse A is slated to open in 2026, providing immediate relief during the construction of Concourse B. This temporary solution will minimize disruption while the larger project takes shape.
Concourse M will serve as a crucial buffer during the construction phase, and later provide operational flexibility for handling unforeseen disruptions. However, the project necessitates the demolition of the existing South Terminal, currently home to Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines.
