Tampa International Airport is undergoing a major transformation, with a brand-new terminal in the works that will help the airport handle millions more travelers every year. Backed by a $1.5 billion investment, the redesigned Airside D terminal marks a big step toward expanding capacity from 25 million to 35 million annual passengers by 2037.
The new Airside D terminal is being delivered through a design-build partnership led by Hensel Phelps, one of the nation’s top general contractors. They oversee both the design and construction of the $1.5 billion project, working alongside architects and engineers from HNTB and Gensler. The Beck Group was also involved in the early stages of preconstruction planning, helping shape the vision for what will become the airport’s first new airside in nearly 20 years.
To prepare the site, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority approved an $81.5 million enabling contract with Crisdel Group Inc. in late 2024. Crisdel is handling early site work like tearing down existing structures, clearing out old concrete, installing underground utilities, and putting up fencing to secure the area. It’s all part of the groundwork needed to support a new terminal that will help Tampa keep up with rising demand from both domestic and international travelers.
Image courtesy of https://news.tampaairport.com/
The design for the new terminal is now 60 percent complete, giving travelers a better sense of what’s coming in the 563,000-square-foot space. It will be the first airside terminal built at Tampa International Airport in almost 20 years, signaling a significant step forward in the airport’s ongoing expansion.
The new Airside D terminal will have two levels and 16 gates, connected to the main terminal by a shuttle. It’s also being built to handle international arrivals, complete with dedicated customs facilities. One of the highlights is a mezzanine level featuring lounges where travelers can stretch out and take a breather before boarding.
Image courtesy of https://news.tampaairport.com/
Officials say the layout is designed to streamline both domestic and international travel, improving flow and elevating the passenger experience. According to the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, the new terminal will support projected growth while helping the airport maintain its reputation for smooth operations and customer service.
Early visuals show a bright, roomy terminal with lots of natural light and high ceilings. Upstairs, the mezzanine will have lounges that look out over the concourse, giving passengers a quiet spot to relax before their flight.
The design also keeps the future in mind, using sturdy materials and sustainable choices to help the airport grow without constant overhauls.
Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with a targeted opening date in 2028. Once completed, Airside D will be the fifth airside terminal at TPA, helping distribute foot traffic more evenly across the airport.
It’s a necessary move for a city that has seen a surge in tourism and business travel over the past decade. With Florida’s population continuing to grow and demand for air travel on the rise, Tampa International Airport is positioning itself to meet the needs of travelers for decades to come.
Want more updates on major infrastructure projects like this one? Subscribe to our newsletter at Under the Hard Hat for news, insights, and industry highlights sent straight to your inbox.
