Gates to the Future Expansion
Expanding terminal concourses, jet bridges, security lanes, and passenger amenities to serve Northern Michigan's growing travel needs.
Current Passenger Impact & Detours
Construction is active near Gate 4. Please follow temporary signage. All security checkpoints and parking facilities remain fully operational.
Official Architectural Rendering: Northwest Regional Airport Authority Terminal Expansion Initiative.
Up to 4 New Passenger Gates (9 Gates Total by 2030)
Adding FAA-approved modern glass jet bridges to accommodate larger dual-class commercial jets (Boeing 737 / Airbus A320) year-round.
Expanded Security Lanes
Doubling checkpoint capacity and dedicated TSA PreCheck screening lanes to reduce peak morning security wait times.
Enhanced Concourse Dining & Amenities
Expanding post-security dining seating, modern lactation suites, charging hubs, and floor-to-ceiling airfield views.
Gates to the Future Expansion Milestones
Planning & Environmental
FAA Environmental Assessment & FONSI clearance completed.
Architectural Design
Final concourse engineering and construction bid package release.
Concourse Construction
Foundation work, jet bridge procurement, and structural steel erection.
Phase 1 Opening
Commissioning new gates and opening expanded passenger concourse.
Current Phase 3: 2026 Active Construction
Heavy foundation work and structural steel erection in progress near Gate 4. Jet bridge delivery scheduled for October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will flight operations or schedules be impacted during construction?
No. All flight arrivals and departures operate on standard schedules. Construction zones are fully isolated from passenger gates.
How is the expansion project being funded?
Funding is provided through FAA Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) airport terminal grants, Passenger Facility Charges (PFC), and NRAA capital reserves—with zero local property tax contribution.