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Palm Springs airport officials outline $2.2 billion expansion plan, near‑term service changes
Summary
City-appointed airport representative delivered an economic impact update and a project status report to the Rancho Mirage City Council, describing a long‑range $2.2 billion expansion, recent route changes and short‑term improvements including a $90 million outbound baggage system replacement and escalator and restroom upgrades.
Airport leadership briefed the Rancho Mirage City Council on July 17 about long‑range development plans and near‑term operational changes at Palm Springs International Airport.
The airport economic impact study supporting a proposed $2,200,000,000 expansion over the next 15–20 years projects about 10,000 new jobs and nearly $250 million in additional tax revenue over a 10‑year window, the airport representative told the council. The presentation stressed that those long‑term figures will inform route development and federal funding advocacy.
The report noted recent service shifts: Avelo Airlines announced it is exiting West Coast operations, including Palm Springs, while United Airlines will resume seasonal nonstop service to Newark Liberty International Airport and is expected to restore or increase service to other hubs. The airport representative said overall seat capacity for August–November is scheduled to be higher than last year despite a decline in capacity from the Canadian market.
On facilities, staff described several projects in varying stages: elevator replacement, replacement of aging outdoor escalators (kickoff meetings scheduled next month and award targeted by January), restroom replacement and phased construction over roughly two to three years, new mid‑century modern seating, and other terminal upgrades. The airport also reported a planned $90 million outbound baggage system replacement; staff said the airport is seeking confirmation of roughly $60 million in federal grant funding.
The airport representative noted the airport’s “Progress PSP” website as the public source for updates and emphasized that no local taxpayer dollars are being used for the listed near‑term improvements. City council members asked about planning finality and federal funding risks; the airport representative said many elements remain “stepwise” and funding partnerships and public‑private options are under discussion.
Council members and the presenter encouraged residents to use the local airport to demonstrate demand and help attract year‑round routes. No formal council action was taken; the item was a briefing.
Ending: Council members thanked the airport presenter for the update and noted the airport’s role as an economic engine for the Coachella Valley.
