TPA Airside D design progress on display in new renderings

Tampa International Airport (TPA) has unveiled updated renderings of its forthcoming Airside D terminal, marking the project’s progression to the 30% design completion stage. These renderings were presented during the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board of Directors meeting Dec. 5.

Design Features

The new 16-gate Airside D is designed to serve both international and domestic flights. Key features include:

• Glass boarding bridges offering views of the airfield.
• A two-level structure with a mezzanine housing two airline lounges overlooking the airfield and Tampa Bay.
• A spacious international passenger arrival processing area on the first floor, directly accessible from international flights.
• Centralized shopping and dining options with 360-degree views of the gates and a high ceiling.

The design is scheduled for finalization by the end of 2025, with construction set to begin following the groundbreaking on Dec. 18 of this year. The project has an estimated cost of $1.5 billion and is expected to open to the public in 2028.

Capacity Expansion

TPA currently accommodates approximately 25 million passengers annually. The addition of Airside D is projected to increase this capacity to 35 million passengers by 2037, aligning with the region’s anticipated growth.

Project Approval and Funding

The Aviation Authority Board has approved a $91 million enabling contract to initiate onsite work, including security fencing installation, concrete removal, establishment of contractor offices and utility work. The design-build team comprises construction company Hensel Phelps, architecture and engineering firm HNTB Corporation and architectural firm Gensler.

TPA’s Recent Developments

In October 2024, TPA received a $40 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to support Airside D’s construction. This funding is part of the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aimed at modernizing transportation infrastructure.

TPA has also been recognized for its customer satisfaction, ranking second among large North American airports in the 2024 J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study.

Regional Impact

The expansion is expected to bolster the local economy by creating jobs and enhancing the airport’s capacity to accommodate increased passenger traffic.