Writer: Dylan Bruton
2 min read March 2024 — Miami International Airport recently began Phase One of upgrades for its Central Terminal, part of a $7 billion investment in capital upgrades and $1.7 billion for maintenance in an effort to amplify the infrastructure within the airport and improve the overall traveler experience.
The planned project is in anticipation of an expected 77 million travelers and 4 million tons of freight by 2040 within Miami International, according to an article in Miami Today. Miami International is also attaching a passenger convey system that will assist faculty operations for passenger-freight elevators and escalators.
Last year, Miami experienced a record-setting number of travelers, 52.3 million, which was a 3.2% increase from 2022’s record. International travel experienced an 8.5% rise, accounting for 23.2 million passengers, and though down a half a percent from the previous year, the airport saw 29.1 million travelers domestically, according to a Miami International Airport press release.
Miami is not only one of the biggest tourist destinations in America, but the world. Every year, especially during the spring break season, the city receives a heavy influx of tourists from across the globe.
But there are two sides to every story. According to the 2022 Global Airport Ranking report by Data Panda, Miami International was ranked third worst to fly out of.The biggest complaint was that the airport suffered from overcrowded terminals and lackluster amenities. The $7 billion capital investment project will support modernization at Miami International over the next five to 15 years. It is worth noting that Miami International fared much better in a 2023 J.D. Power survey, in which the airport ranked fifth best mega airport in the United States.
Among the significant initiatives that Miami International will implement are a $136 million parking garage that will include 2,200 spaces to increase parking availability for employees and travelers alike and the complete removal of airline ticket counters between concourses F and H thanks to the implementation of biometric boarding technology at all 60 gates in concourse D.
There will also be a revampment of 38 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in addition to 30 bathrooms and 10 passenger boarding bridges within the airport.
“The enduring success of MIA as a global gateway and Miami’s status as a premier tourism destination shines through in our remarkable achievement of a second consecutive record-breaking year,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, according to a press release. “The significant investments in infrastructure and maintenance in 2023 reflect MIA’s commitment to staying at the forefront.”
Image Via Gazitua Letelier
