Key West International Airport’s $130m modernisation project has attained a key milestone with the grand opening of Concourse A.
The construction of the 48,802ft² concourse marks a significant step in the project that began in late 2022, with a focus on environmental, social, and economic considerations.
The ribbon-cutting event saw Monroe County commissioners and Key West International Airport executives in attendance, alongside consultants from McFarland Johnson and Mead & Hunt.
McFarland Johnson, as the lead consultant, is responsible for planning, programming, engineering design, permitting, and construction administration services for the project.
McFarland Johnson vice-president and regional director of aviation John Mafera said: “Reimagining the Key West Airport required us to focus on airport efficiencies and delivering a greatly improved customer experience while also addressing environmental impacts, long-term sustainability, and hurricane standards related to wind and storm surge. We had to deliver a building that performed well against several different, and often competing, measures.”
The modernisation includes features such as elevating the entire facility over 14ft above ground to combat storm surge, with reinforced columns for additional stability.
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By GlobalDataThe north side of the terminal features a 27ft-high glass curtain wall made up of 446 impact-resistant panels, designed to withstand winds of up to 200mph.
Additionally, the terminal curtain wall features electrochromic glass technology that adapts to varying light levels.
In partnership with wildlife organisations, the design also includes impact-resistant glass with bird-safe glazing to prevent avian collisions.
The second phase of the airport’s transformation is now underway, with planned enhancements such as a new pedestrian bridge, an expanded baggage claim and arrivals area, a multilane security checkpoint, and other support services.
This phase is set for completion by mid-2026.
Key West International Airport has seen a surge in traffic, with 1.5 million passengers in 2024.
It hosts flights from major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and others, offering nonstop connections to cities including Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Miami, Boston, and Washington D.C.
