Des Moines Airport Launches Next Phase of $600-million Expansion

test — Image courtesy of the Des Moines Airport Authority

The next phase of a $600- terminal expansion project at Des Moines International Airport is slated to proceed in spring 2026.

The Weitz Company, a subsidiary of Orascom Construction PLC, along with Turner Construction and the Des Moines Airport Authority, is preparing to begin the third phase of the Des Moines International Airport terminal expansion, a $600 million program that includes a new parking garage.

The airport authority recently approved the Phase 1B East expansion, which is set to begin this spring. The work will extend the new terminal east toward Fleur Drive and add four gates, bringing the total to 11 new gates when complete. The project will double terminal capacity and support more flights and destinations, the authority said in a news release.

Construction for Phase 1B East will start with site preparation, structural work and systems coordination. Weitz previously delivered the airport’s parking garage expansion in July 2025 to help accommodate expected passenger growth.

“In October 2023, we broke ground on the first phase of the terminal, which is on track to be completed in just over a year. The phased approach has paid off,” said Des Moines Airport Authority CEO Brian Mulcahy.

The overall project includes building a modern terminal north of the current facility to replace much of the 1948-era structure. Plans call for a new ticketing lobby, Transportation Security Administration checkpoint, baggage handling systems, dining and retail areas, and a meet-and-greet space. Earlier phases involved demolishing parts of the existing terminal and repurposing other areas for administrative and support needs.

“Executing a project of this scale requires discipline, teamwork and a relentless focus on safety, schedule and budget,” said Mike Tousley, general manager at The Weitz Co./Iowa.

HNTB is serving as architect- and structural engineer-of-record for the expansion, which will bring airport capacity to 4 million passengers a year.