Which 5 Major US Airports Are Undergoing Massive Infrastructure Upgrades?

The commercial aviation news cycle is currently dominated by US airport improvement projects across the country. Several major hubs are undergoing significant, multi-billion dollar renovations. These projects aim to enhance capacity, improve the passenger experience, and boost overall aviation safety enhancements.

Focus on Safety: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is implementing a critical, safety-oriented improvement project. This work centers on Boston Logan Runway 09/27. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is leading the $110 million effort.

The main goal is improving the Runway Safety Area (RSA) at the end of Runway 27. This is being done by installing an Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS). EMAS is a lightweight, collapsible material designed to stop an aircraft that has overrun the runway. This system is vital for airports like BOS, which are located near water or ground elevation changes. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) largely funds this safety project.

Operational Impact and Delays

To complete the work, the runway requires two 75-day closures. The first closure began in September 2025. The second closure is scheduled to begin after July 1, 2026. During these periods, the number of aircraft that can land and take off will be impacted. Passengers should anticipate expected passenger delays, especially during peak travel times.

Full-Scale Transformation: New York JFK Airport

New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is in the middle of a massive, $19 billion overhaul. This project is one of the world's largest airport overhauls. The goal is to transform JFK into a world-class global gateway.

This New York JFK terminal replacement and expansion effort will see aging facilities fully replaced. Two major new terminals are under construction. The New Terminal One (NTO) will be a 2.4 million-square-foot, 23-gate international complex. The NTO is privately funded with a $9.5 billion price tag. Phased openings for NTO are expected to begin in 2026, with full completion by 2030.

Another major component is the $4.2 billion New Terminal 6. This 1.2 million-square-foot facility will feature 10 new gates. It will replace the former Terminal 6 and 7 sites. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is leading this comprehensive redesign. Travelers should expect ongoing construction impacts, including frequent lane closures and rerouted roadways, until the project concludes.

Other Major Infrastructure Upgrades

Beyond the Northeast, other major US airports are also seeing significant investment in airport modernization efforts:

• Chicago-O'Hare International Airport (ORD): The $8.2 billion ORDNext expansion project is underway. This plan includes the groundbreaking of a new Concourse D, which is slated for completion in 2028.
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): The overhaul focuses on improving ground access and navigation. The Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP) delivered a new Consolidated Car Rental Facility. This streamlined the rental process and eliminated multiple shuttle bus routes.
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): DFW is working to augment the larger Terminal F and expand Terminal C. The Terminal F project, which offers 31 gates, targeted a partnership with American Airlines.

These major infrastructure upgrades reflect a national trend. Airports are investing heavily to meet growing passenger demand. They are also implementing new FAA safety regulations and modernizing aging facilities. For more information on these and other developments, visit our dedicated aviation news section at flying.flights.