Salt Lake City Airport announces major expansion and new routes

The Salt Lake City Department of Airports is making headlines with the announcement of new nonstop flights to Seoul, marking a significant expansion in international air service for Utah. Brady Frederiksen, the department's director of planning, shared this exciting news during the Transportation Interim Committee meeting on October 16, 2024. This flight, set to commence in June, is the first direct service to Asia in over a decade, highlighting the airport's growing role in connecting Utah to the global economy.

Frederiksen emphasized the airport's rapid growth, noting that it has welcomed five new airlines since 2022, including Air Canada and Spirit. The airport is also set to open Phase 3 of its expansion on October 22, which will add four new gates and introduce a central tunnel designed to enhance passenger experience by reducing walking distances and featuring artistic elements.

In addition to passenger services, the airport is focusing on cargo operations. A recent request for proposals was issued to attract a cargo operator, aiming to bolster the airport's capacity to handle freight as demand increases.

Frederiksen also addressed future developments, including plans for a potential Concourse C and the extension of the airport's runway to accommodate larger aircraft, which is crucial given Utah's elevation and the impact of temperature on flight operations.

The meeting also featured updates from Provo Airport, which is experiencing significant growth and recently opened a new terminal. Provo Airport has doubled its passenger numbers over the past two years, surpassing FAA projections and establishing itself as a key player in Utah's aviation landscape.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored the importance of continued investment in airport infrastructure to support Utah's expanding economy and enhance connectivity for both passengers and cargo.