Mobile International Airport is undergoing a $380M modernization project, including a new terminal and parking garage. The transformation aims to enhance traveler experience, economic growth and accessibility. Construction challenges are being met with precision planning, with a completion date set for early 2026.
Mobile Airport Authority photo
The scale and intricacy of the work require precise planning, detailed design and collaboration.
In south Alabama, construction continues on a transformational project at Mobile International Airport.
The $380 million effort includes building a new terminal and parking garage, as well as making associated infrastructure improvements that include utilities and civil work.
"It's incredibly fulfilling to work on a project of this scale because it's more than just building a terminal — it's a game changer," said Andy Wilson, executive director of Mobile Airport Authority. "It will not only transform the way people experience travel, but also support economic growth and connect families and businesses."
Wilson noted the new terminal is ideally located.
"It's less than five miles from downtown Mobile and under 15 miles from Baldwin County, roughly half the distance of competing airports," he said. "This convenient location will cut travel times and improve access for passengers. In addition, enhanced amenities, additional gates and a larger parking garage will create a smoother, more comfortable and efficient experience for everyone passing through."
The new terminal will feature spacious gate areas, dining options, retail shops and an executive lounge. It will be fully ADA compliant, with accessible facilities, services and accommodations for passengers with disabilities.
"This project will modernize our airport, making it more accessible and convenient for everyone," said Wilson. "With new amenities, increased capacity and improved efficiency, it will provide an enhanced travel experience for both local residents and visitors."
Preconstruction began in August 2023, with construction getting under way a few months later. Work on the parking deck started in October 2024. The expected project completion date is early 2026.
According to Wilson, community reaction to the new terminal has been overwhelmingly positive.
"People are excited about the modern, more convenient terminal," he said. "The parking garage's expanded capacity is also welcomed, as it will ease congestion and improve the travel experience."
Construction challenges include administering the budget within a competitive market, while coordinating the aspects of the project. The scale and intricacy of the work require precise planning, detailed design and collaboration.
Crews are installing the garage's vertical concrete columns and parking decks, as well as working on the passenger terminal access road, roof and curtain wall. Work on the taxiway and aircraft apron is also under way. Crews have recently completed the primary utility connections on Perimeter Road and reopened the road one week early.
Significant progress includes completing the steel framing for the terminal, pouring the concourse concrete slab and completing the first level of the parking garage ramp.
Additionally, storm drain repairs and curb installations along the terminal's main entrance have been finished.
"Remaining tasks include finishing the interior of the terminal, completing the parking garage structure and continuing civil work, such as the elevated roadway," said Wilson. "The focus now is on drying in the terminal and completing the apron slab pours."
Before work began, the site consisted of miscellaneous military-era structures and pavement. Significant site preparation was necessary, including demolition and grading. Five existing buildings had to be removed to clear space for the new terminal and parking garage.
Site work included both landside and airside elements. Significant underground utility improvements have been placed, including power, water, glass and drainage.
Fortunately for crews, there have been no major unexpected issues; however, Mobile's weather, particularly heavy rain, has affected some outdoor tasks.
"The recent snow event impacted site access," said Wilson, "but once the terminal roof and curtain wall are in place, interior work will commence, reducing potential impacts."
The parking garage will have five levels and includes 1,250 parking spaces. Key tasks completed so far include formwork for the second level and installing vertical concrete columns, driving piles and structural foundation work, primary utility feeds, metal work and concrete placement. The structure is said to be progressing well.
Essential machinery on the job includes heavy civil site equipment for excavating, as well as two tower cranes supporting the parking garage. The main materials being used are concrete, structural steel for the terminal and cast-in-place concrete for the parking garage.
As for shifting all commercial air service from Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to Mobile International Airport (BFM), "The operation requires extensive planning and transition coordination between airlines, TSA and, most importantly, passengers," said Wilson. "It's a complex process."
Wilson underscored how satisfying it is to be part of this major undertaking.
"It's incredibly exciting to see the new terminal coming to life," he said. "We're thrilled to be part of such a significant transformation for Mobile and Baldwin counties, knowing that it will have a lasting positive impact on our region. It's rewarding to see the progress, and to think about how this new facility will shape the future of air travel for years to come." CEG
Cindy Riley
Birmingham, Ala., native Cindy RIley originally planned on a career in law, but during her sophomore year in college realized journalism was her true calling. A magna cum laude graduate of Samford University, Riley first worked in radio and TV. Named Best News Anchor, Best News Reporter and Best Investigative Reporter by the Associated Press, she interviewed numerous personalities, ranging from Dr. Henry Kissinger and President Bush to Michael Jordan and Captain Kangaroo.
As a print journalist, Riley has covered a variety of topics, including construction, business, health and the arts. In addition to CEG, her work has appeared in special reports for USA Today and the L.A. Times. Other publications have included New South Magazine, Portico, Thicket, Alabama Heritage, B-Metro, Business First and Birmingham Business Journal.
Read more from Cindy Riley here.
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