Austin Airport Reviews Plan for Third Concourse as Growth Accelerates

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is examining whether its ongoing expansion should accommodate a third new concourse as passenger demand continues climbing in the Texas capital, according to a report this week.

The airport is currently advancing construction on two midfield concourses—designated B and M—but officials are now weighing whether to extend the underground tunnel serving Concourse B to allow for a future Concourse C. The reconsideration comes as carriers expand their Austin networks and gate commitments at the facility have already been allocated years in advance.

Southwest Airlines is set to control the majority of gates at the forthcoming Concourse B, with 18 of 26 positions earmarked for the Dallas-based carrier, while Delta Air Lines will occupy 15 of 34 gates in the existing Barbara Jordan Terminal. Delta's growing presence has fueled industry speculation that the Atlanta-based airline could be eyeing Austin as a potential hub, with reports suggesting the carrier may launch transatlantic service to Paris as early as next summer.

The planned Concourse M will feature six unassigned overflow gates connected to the main terminal via shuttle. However, with gate assignments already secured and demand projections rising, airport leadership is reportedly assessing whether that capacity will prove sufficient in the coming decade.

The multi-year development program is being financed through conventional airport revenue streams and cash reserves, with no burden placed on local taxpayers. Current construction includes the West Gate expansion, new midfield taxiways, and the Yellow Garage and Atrium Infill project. The five-phase overhaul is designed to position the airport to meet demand in one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan regions.

Austin-Bergstrom served more than 21 million passengers in 2025, and officials have long acknowledged that the facility's original infrastructure was not designed to accommodate the region's rapid population and economic expansion.