The City of Midland and airport officials have started construction on the Midland International Air & Space Port Terminal Expansion & Modernization project. The initiative aims to reduce passenger wait times at TSA checkpoints, which currently average 30 minutes during peak hours and can reach up to two hours when only one lane is available.
The terminal, originally built in the late 1990s, is undergoing its largest upgrade in three decades. This modernization effort aligns with the city’s strategy to expand air transportation services and further develop the airport system. Recent years have seen significant growth, with airline passenger numbers in fiscal year 2025 rising by 80% compared to fiscal year 2010.
At-large Councilwoman Robin Poole, who serves as council liaison to the Airport Department and Airport Board, said, “I am thrilled to be breaking ground on our TSA expansion project — a true reflection of the record-breaking number of travelers we continue to welcome year after year. Once complete, this project will improve the traveler experience with six TSA checkpoint lines and a more efficient flow, while allowing for future growth – something our airport is well-acquainted with! I’m deeply grateful to our city and airport staff for their hard work in bringing this important project to life so quickly.” Poole added that completion could come as early as spring 2027.
The terminal expansion is part of $150 million in planned improvements at both Midland International Airport and Midland Airpark. The City anticipates that about 73% of these costs will be covered by grants. Remaining expenses will be paid by the Airport Department using passenger fees from airlines operating at Midland International. The airport operates independently of the city’s General Fund, meaning no property tax increases are expected due to these upgrades.
Additional projects include constructing another surface parking lot and expanding hangar capacity through an Airpark Development project. A new entrance will also be added on the north side of the airport.