Major $450M Revamp at BWI Airport Set for January 2026

URGENT UPDATE: Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) is set to undergo a groundbreaking transformation with a stunning $450 million renovation, slated to open on January 9, 2026. This major upgrade promises faster baggage handling and a modern travel experience for millions of passengers navigating the busy Maryland airport.

The new Terminal A/B connector will link Concourses A and B, significantly enhancing passenger movement throughout the airport. “We’re going to open up five new gates down in what we call the A/B connector,” stated Shannetta Griffin, executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration. This development aims to revolutionize the way travelers traverse the airport.

The renovations include five relocated gates, updated restrooms, and a spacious open area designed for a modern feel. New concessions, such as a bar and a Dunkin’ booth, will be strategically placed near the food court, ensuring travelers enjoy a wider selection of dining options.

One of the key improvements is the state-of-the-art baggage handling system. The old system managed about 2,100 bags per hour, while the new installation can handle 3,400 bags, with the potential for future expansion to 5,200 bags per hour. “What it’s really going to do is give a new feel and look, in regards to the airport itself, a very high-tech and new baggage system,” Griffin emphasized.

The upgraded system will feature 670 motors powering around 1.5 miles of conveyor belts, efficiently transporting luggage below the passenger walkways. This project represents the largest capital improvement initiative in BWI’s history, a significant milestone for the airport.

“This is one of the largest capital improvement projects the airport has seen,” Griffin noted. “Going to be one of our most fabulous as we open that up for our largest air carrier, which is Southwest Airlines.” The airline is expected to benefit greatly from the new gates, with flights already scheduled to utilize the relocated facilities.

Construction began in 2022 after delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted initial plans set in motion as early as 2017. Griffin remarked that the return to the construction schedule is a testament to the hard work of the teams involved.

Funding for this ambitious project comes from airport revenue bonds alongside federal funding and the Maryland Transportation Trust Fund. Officials stress that these upgrades are crucial not only for enhancing convenience but also for improving passenger safety and comfort, featuring refreshed restrooms and enhanced circulation space.

“This is the first place people see when they arrive and the last place they remember before they leave,” Griffin added. The focus on creating a safe, welcoming environment speaks to the airport’s commitment to providing a superior travel experience, setting a new standard for modern airports.

Travelers and locals alike can look forward to a vastly improved BWI Airport experience, with the renovation poised to redefine air travel in Maryland. Stay tuned for more updates as construction progresses and the opening date approaches.