In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the findings of a terminal capacity study aimed at addressing the growing needs of the local airport. The study follows a series of workshops involving stakeholders, including city commissioners and airport advisory boards, and highlights a significant increase in passenger traffic, with record-breaking numbers reported in June and July.

The airport has seen a 23% year-over-year increase in activity, with American Airlines and Delta expanding their flight schedules to accommodate rising demand. This growth necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the terminal's capacity and future expansion plans.

The terminal capacity team presented forecasts indicating that even under conservative estimates, the airport will face space shortages in the coming years. Current facilities are already nearing capacity, particularly in ticketing and passenger hold areas. The study outlines several expansion alternatives, with a focus on adding a new concourse to the west of the existing terminal, which would include additional gates and improved amenities.

Key recommendations from the study include the construction of four new gates, enhanced passenger services, and expanded baggage claim facilities. The proposed expansion aims to maintain operational continuity during construction, ensuring that existing services remain unaffected.

Officials emphasized the urgency of addressing these capacity issues, noting that the airport's growth trajectory and the airlines' investments in new routes and larger aircraft necessitate immediate action. The meeting concluded with a call for direction on the proposed recommendations, as the airport prepares to meet the demands of an increasingly busy travel environment.