Spokane Airport Completes First Phase of Concourse C Expansion

Spokane International Airport (GEG) has completed the first phase of its ambitious Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program, a critical step in modernizing the facility to accommodate sustained passenger growth. The initial phase, the $150 million Concourse C Expansion, is now operational and primarily serves Alaska Airlines (AS) and American Airlines (AA), providing updated amenities and increased capacity for the Inland Northwest's primary air travel hub.

The project addresses the airport's rising traffic, which has seen consistent year-over-year increases. According to data from the airport, passenger volume grew to 4.26 million in 2024, a 3.2% increase from the previous year. This was followed by a further 2% increase in 2025, with the airport serving over 4.35 million passengers. This expansion is designed to not only meet current demand but also to prepare for future projections, which anticipate 6.2 million passengers annually by 2030.

Project Scope and Features

The just-completed first phase of the Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program adds a 144,000 square foot extension to the west end of Concourse C. This includes three new gates and six new ticketing counters, directly increasing the airport's operational capacity. The design incorporates modern passenger amenities, including enhanced accessibility features, companion care rooms, and nursing spaces, reflecting a broader industry trend toward improving the overall passenger experience.

In line with contemporary airport design standards, the project is also pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. According to Alliiance Architecture, the firm involved in the project, this focus on sustainability is a key component of the modernization effort. The expansion aims to improve operational efficiency while minimizing the environmental footprint of the growing facility.

Economic and Regional Impact

The TREX program represents a significant investment in regional infrastructure with substantial economic benefits. Spokane International Airport projects that the construction and subsequent operations will create nearly 1,200 new jobs. Furthermore, the expansion is expected to generate an additional $87 million in household revenue within the region. The total economic impact for the state of Washington is estimated at $313 million, underscoring the airport's role as a vital economic engine.

Ezra Eckhardt, Spokane Airport Board Chair, highlighted the project's strategic importance. "We're not just opening a new section of the terminal. We're creating new economic opportunities for the Spokane community," Eckhardt stated. "By 2030, more than 6.2 million passengers are expected to pass through our gates, and this project simultaneously increases our region's capacity to accommodate this exponential growth while better positioning our team to attract, retain and expand air service that connect Spokane to the global economy."

Next Phases and Completion

While the first phase is a major milestone, it is part of a larger, multi-phase program. Work continues on the remainder of the Concourse C project, which is expected to be fully completed in Q4 2025. The overall TREX program will continue with subsequent phases designed to centralize security screening, improve baggage handling systems, and further enhance the passenger experience throughout the terminal. Official updates on the project's timeline and features are available on the GEG TREX Program Website.

This phased approach allows the airport to remain fully operational while undergoing significant construction, minimizing disruption to passengers and airline partners. The long-term vision is to create a more efficient, modern, and passenger-friendly airport that can support the region's growth for decades to come.

Why This Matters

This development at Spokane International Airport is emblematic of a national trend where regional airports are undertaking major capital improvements to compete for air service and handle post-pandemic traffic growth. By investing in modern infrastructure, GEG is positioning itself to attract more direct flights, reducing the need for regional travelers to connect through larger, more congested hubs. The project serves as a clear indicator of confidence in the economic future of the Inland Northwest and its increasing integration into the national and global air travel network.

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