The New Terminal

The new terminal will lift the overall travel journey the moment the traveler enters the airport. With efficiency, safety, and sustainability in mind, the first phase, Phase 1A, will encompass the main passenger processing areas, including ticketing, baggage handling, the TSA security checkpoint, as well as seven new aircraft gates. It will connect into the existing C Concourse via a skywalk allowing the airlines to utilize the existing gates on both the A and C Concourses. The two concourse expansions, Phase 1B and Phase 1C, will be completed as funds are secured, and growth necessitates additional expansion. These gates and parking positions will enhance opportunities for air service growth to benefit the quality of life in the region and state. 

Lift DSM:  Terminal Project

Terminal Design

The Terminal Program Manual was updated in April 2022, and design began on the new terminal building.  The new terminal will sit directly north of the existing terminal and adjacent to Runway 23.  Planning and cost considerations indicate the need to utilize the existing concourses while enhancing the passenger experience throughout the parking, check-in, and boarding processes.

Benefits to Travelers: Designing a terminal to accommodate the current and future travel demand and  infrastructure to support updated technologies will lift the passenger experience on day one of opening the new facility.  The new terminal will provide streamlined security processing, elevated concessions and dining experiences, larger and more flexible holdrooms, enhanced gate operations to accommodate air service growth, improved baggage handling systems, sustainability and more efficient operations. 

Estimated Timeline:  Design began in 2022 with full design completed and accepted by the Board of Directors in May 2024. 

Project Partners: HNTB was selected to design the 289,312 square foot terminal in conjunction with Anser Advisory and Weitz/Turner joint venture.  
Terminal Features & Capabilities

Upon opening, the new Des Moines International Airport will feature:

  • Expanded central security screening checkpoints with eight screening lanes.
  • Eighteen aircraft gates and additional remote parking positions enhancing opportunities for air service (new routes, new airlines, increased flight frequencies).
  • Updated and more efficient baggage handling systems.
  • Upgraded technologies and infrastructure.
  • Improved sustainability and green technology.
  • Elevated dining and retail options.
  • A new look featuring natural light and compelling airfield views.
Terminal Study & Environmental Assessment
Read the new terminal study here.  The terminal environmental assessment can be found here. 
Weitz/Turner JV Current List of Pre-Qualified Bidders
Click here for a list of pre-qualified bidders.