The bustling Asheville Regional Airport is set to undergo a significant transformation as it enters a new phase in its ambitious expansion plan. With major work on the South Terminal poised to commence next week, travelers can expect substantial changes to the airport’s layout and operations.
During a recent meeting, the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority detailed the next steps in their $400 million expansion initiative. A key element of this expansion involves the demolition of parts of the old terminal to pave the way for the new South Concourse.
Lexie Farmer, the airport’s chief operations officer, explained the adjustments that passengers will soon experience. “Passengers will begin traversing from baggage claim to ticketing; they’ll be redirected out of the entrances and into a new temporary structure to connect the two,” she informed the airport authority board. She also noted that the demolition would affect all areas of the legacy terminal, save for the rental car counters and existing baggage claim, which will remain operational.
In light of these developments, Terminal Drive will be narrowed down to two lanes, with staff on hand daily during peak times to manage traffic flow. October is a particularly busy month for Asheville Regional Airport, with tourists flocking to Western North Carolina for the vibrant autumn foliage.
The summer saw the unveiling of a new ticket lobby and the opening of a 136,000-square-foot North Concourse, which boasts expansive windows, new dining options, and an art gallery showcasing rotating exhibits throughout the year.
Progress continues on the South Concourse, with the foundation and the new air traffic control tower’s frame set to be completed in the coming month. Looking ahead, the airport plans to open the new South Baggage Claim in March and the rental car facility in May, with the entire South Concourse anticipated to be operational by the end of 2027. Final construction tasks and site cleanup will extend into early 2028.
