Pittsburgh International Airport Unveils Stunning New Terminal Ahead of Holiday Rush

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is on the cusp of opening its highly anticipated $1.7 billion new terminal, designed to offer a modern and efficient travel experience. The state-of-the-art facility, set to welcome travelers before the Thanksgiving holiday, marks a significant transformation from its past as a major airline hub to a gateway focused on origin and destination passengers.

Key Takeaways

• The new terminal represents a $1.7 billion investment and a significant redesign for PIT.
• It shifts the airport’s focus from a bustling hub to an origin-and-destination (O&D) model.
• The design emphasizes natural light, local aesthetics, and passenger convenience.
• The terminal is expected to open just before the Thanksgiving holiday.

A Modernized Travel Experience

The new terminal is a complete overhaul, moving away from the previous layout optimized for connecting flights. The focus is now on enhancing the experience for travelers starting or ending their journey in Pittsburgh. The structure boasts soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and design elements inspired by the region’s trees and rolling hills, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Departures and Arrivals Reimagined

Departing passengers will enter a three-level hall designed for seamless check-in and security. The centralized security checkpoint features 12 lanes, including Clear, Precheck, and priority options, aiming to reduce wait times. Upon clearing security, travelers will walk over a bridge adorned with a digital screen showcasing Pittsburgh’s iconic bridges before entering the main terminal core. For arrivals, the new design allows domestic passengers to proceed directly to the exit, bypassing the need for a train. The baggage claim area has been modernized with eight new belts, designed for speed and featuring unique local artwork.

Local Flair and Amenities

Pittsburgh’s new terminal integrates local art and design throughout. A notable feature is Alexander Calder’s kinetic mobile, "Pittsburgh," displayed near the security area. Restrooms are individually designed with unique artwork, and small fresh flower arrangements add a touch of elegance. The airport also introduces outdoor terraces, with some opening on day one and larger ones planned for spring, offering passengers a breath of fresh air.

Enhanced Infrastructure

The project includes a new five-story parking garage offering 3,271 covered spaces, significantly increasing capacity. Adjacent to the garage is a large open-air parking lot. Rideshare pickup has a dedicated area with angled parking for easier identification of vehicles. The new terminal’s construction adjacent to the gate areas eliminates the need for an automated people mover, streamlining the passenger flow and offering cost savings for airlines.

A New Era for PIT

This modernization signifies Pittsburgh International Airport’s adaptation to the evolving airline industry, moving beyond its past as a major hub. The new terminal promises a more efficient, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing experience for all travelers, aligning with some of the nation’s most modern airport facilities.

Sources

• Inside Pittsburgh’s glistening new $1.7 billion terminal, The Points Guy.
• Pittsburgh airport nears opening of $1.7 billion terminal, The Points Guy.