Massport Proposes Major Renovation for Boston Logan Air Traffic Control Tower?

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) has unveiled its draft strategic plan for 2025. This comprehensive plan outlines key initiatives for Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). The primary focus is addressing aging infrastructure and rapidly increasing demand at the busy New England hub.

Massport's proposal includes a major renovation or complete replacement of the airport’s air traffic control tower. This critical infrastructure project aims to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations. The plan also prioritizes terminal modernization to enhance the overall passenger experience.

The Draft Strategic Plan

The Massport strategic plan sets a long-term vision for the next decade. It guides development across all Massport facilities, including BOS. The authority released the draft strategic plan on January 22, 2026. The public is invited to review the document and provide feedback. The public comment period is scheduled to run until March 6, 2026.

Key elements for Boston Logan include:

• A major renovation or replacement of the Air Traffic Control Tower.
• Modernizing the airport's terminal core for better passenger flow.
• Enhancing high-occupancy vehicle and transit options.
• Exploring innovative ideas like remote terminals.

Addressing Aging Infrastructure

Logan International Airport operates with one of the smallest footprints nationwide. It also manages some of the country’s oldest airport infrastructure. This reality makes strategic investment essential. The proposed airport development projects are crucial for operational longevity. The current ATC tower is a vital asset requiring significant capital work. A new or heavily renovated tower would boost airside efficiency. This directly impacts airline on-time performance and safety.

Responding to Record Demand

The need for extensive terminal modernization is driven by record-breaking air travel growth. Boston Logan served a record 43.5 million passengers in 2024. This figure surpassed the previous high of 42.5 million set in 2019. International passenger volume also hit a record in 2024. Over 9 million international travelers passed through BOS terminals.

This increasing demand requires continued investment in passenger facilities. Massport has already completed significant projects. The Terminal E modernization project, for instance, added four new gates. Ongoing projects include the Terminal E Redevelopment and Consolidation Program. There are also plans for a Terminal C to B Connector. The new strategic plan ensures this momentum continues. It targets the core terminals and the overall passenger journey. Airport capital projects are necessary to maintain service levels.

This investment is critical for the regional economy. Logan serves as New England's primary international gateway. Its specialized air service supports the region's technology and business sectors. The strategic plan aims to balance growth with sustainability. It also reaffirms a commitment to safe, efficient, and reliable operations. The draft strategic plan is a roadmap for the next decade of commercial aviation in Boston. The FAA will ultimately oversee the ATC tower project.

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