DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Airport Authority Board has officially approved Phase Three of the new terminal project, a major step that will extend the modernized facility all the way to Fleur Drive. The decision was announced in a press release on Tuesday, following the board vote on Sept. 9.
Once complete, the terminal will include 11 total gates, effectively doubling the airport’s current operational capacity and supporting a growing number of travelers in Iowa’s capital region. Although the overall project timeline extends to 2030, officials say momentum is strong.
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A press release noted that construction is ahead of schedule and expected to cost less than originally planned. The airport emphasized strong financial planning throughout the effort, announcing:
“This transformation is happening sooner and with less cost than originally anticipated. It is also being accomplished with broad community support, public investment and careful financial stewardship.”
Persistent challenges from the global marketplace — including elevated inflation, disrupted supply chains, and volatile tariff policies — put pressure on construction costs. As a result, the multi-phase strategy was adopted to help the airport reassess pricing and materials as conditions evolve. Airport CEO Brian Mulcahy said this approach has “paid off,” allowing the airport to advance the expansion while protecting its budget.
The terminal is being developed in multiple components:
Renderings and video updates from the airport suggest the new terminal will include expanded passenger amenities, improved security screening, increased restaurant and retail space, and better circulation for both arriving and departing travelers.
The total capital investment — including the already-open multi-level parking garage — will exceed $600 million. The upgrades support rising passenger demand, projected to reach levels that current facilities can’t accommodate.
With all phases complete, airport planners say the infrastructure will be able to manage traffic needs through 2050, offering a more modern travel experience that aligns with Des Moines’ economic growth.
As construction continues, travelers will start to see visible progress taking shape from Fleur Drive and the surrounding airport district. Officials say more announcements regarding passenger amenities and design features are expected as building moves into its next stages.
Originally reported by Mack Swenson in We Are Iowa.
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