Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has officially opened the West Infill project, an addition to the Barbara Jordan Terminal.
This extension forms part of the airport’s ongoing Journey With AUS expansion programme. The project adds more than 75,000 square feet across four levels and includes a new TSA Checkpoint, which will be accessible to passengers from 23 February 2026.
The expansion introduces infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving airport security and operational efficiency for the millions of travellers who pass through AUS each year.
AUS Chief Executive Officer Ghizlane Badawi said:The completion of the West Infill project is a pivotal step forward for AUS and for our community. Our airport is serving 21+ million annual passengers, five years ahead of what our AUS 2040 Master Plan projected. This project is about more than adding space, it’s about delivering a better experience for every traveller as quickly as possible.
The West Infill was initiated in response to the unexpected growth in passenger numbers observed in 2022. While a future centralised TSA Checkpoint will eventually replace Checkpoint 4, airport officials chose to proceed with the current expansion to relieve terminal congestion and provide additional TSA capacity sooner.
Key features of the West Infill project include:
- TSA Checkpoint: Designed for up to eight lanes to improve processing capacity
- Outbound Baggage Handling System: Operational since December 2025, the 1.5-mile conveyor system can process up to 4,000 bags per hour
- Ticketing Facilities: Three new counters with six positions to support airline operations
- Airline and Operational Space: Dedicated areas on the mezzanine and apron levels for airline support functions, passenger amenities, and airport staff offices
- Art and Design Enhancements: Installation of all six pieces from the Voyages art series and reinstallation of the Austin Downtown Cruiser (Day) on the concourse
- Sustainability Measures: The project is pursuing an Austin Energy Green Building 3-star rating, using energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Independent HVAC system, new elevators, and modernised mechanical, electrical, and IT systems
The project, valued at 241 million USD, was financed through airport revenues, future revenue bonds, FAA grants, and $15.99 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, without using taxpayer funds.
Project partners included Whiting-Turner Contracting Company as prime contractor, Gensler as architect, and AECOM as subject matter expert.
The West Infill expansion forms part of the Journey With AUS programme, which aims to modernise and expand Austin’s airport facilities to meet regional growth. The project was completed ahead of schedule and within budget.
