Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is set to undergo a $4bn expansion at Terminal F – doubling the size of the original plan. American Airlines are a key partner, as DFW is their main hub.
DFW is currently the third busiest airport in the world, and the second busiest airport in the USA (behind Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta). Passenger traffic at DFW has grown by 50% in the past decade.
Originally planned as a 15-gate facility, Terminal F will now open with 31 gates and significantly more capacity for widebody aircraft and international operations. The decision, announced on 1 May, accelerates several future phases into one massive buildout. This will be DFW’s most consequential investment since Terminal D opened two decades ago.
Dallas Fort Worth is American Airlines’ largest hub and the headquarters of its operations. About 60% of DFW’s passenger traffic comes from American Airlines flights – and the airline operates the majority of gates across the airport, including full control of the new Terminal F.
The new design will also improve connectivity, with a new Skylink station and a direct walking link to Terminal D.
The wider plan – DFW Forward Terminal F is now part of DFW’s broader $12bn programme, DFW Forward, which also includes a full reimagining of Terminal C and upgrades to Terminal A.
Dallas Fort Worth International, aerial viewDFW CEO Sean Donohue said the expansion ensures the airport can keep up with North Texas’s rapid growth. “Moving forward with Terminal F in this way ensures that DFW and American maintain that momentum,” he said.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom added that the expansion gives DFW “a clear path to become the largest airline hub in the world.” He said the project would “elevate our customer experience in a big way.”
Terminal F’s first phase remains on track to open in 2027, with additional phases to follow. A new parking garage, expanded check-in and security areas and upgraded customer amenities – including restaurants, public art and retail – are all part of the plan. The agreement also extends American’s lease at the airport through 2043.
“This monumental investment by American Airlines is set to elevate an already world-class airport,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker called the deal a vote of confidence in the region’s long-term growth.
