Airport Authority Announces Third Phase of Airport Terminal Construction
November 5, 2025
On September 9, the Des Moines Airport Authority Board took another significant step in the construction of a new terminal by approving the third phase, extending the project all the way to Fleur Drive. With this phase, the combined investment in our new terminal and recently completed parking garage will exceed $600 million—an investment that will transform air travel for Central Iowa for generations to come.
This progress is part of Lift DSM, what has been a community effort to build a modern, efficient, and welcoming airport that reflects the energy and growth of our region. The new terminal will not only serve more passengers but will also provide the convenience, safety, and efficiency that travelers deserve.
Like all major public projects, the path has not been without challenges. High inflation, global supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty around tariffs created pressure on construction costs. On the funding side, federal, state, and local grants were pursued but not always immediately secured. The Authority’s prudent response was to adopt a phased construction plan—building in manageable steps as costs stabilized and elements of the funding plan were realized.
“The phased approach has paid off,” said Brian Mulcahy, Des Moines Airport Authority Chief Executive Officer. “In October 2023, we broke ground on the first phase of the terminal, which is on track to be completed in just over a year. In June 2024, the Board approved adding two more gates, bringing the total to seven. And with the September 9th vote, the Board greenlit the final four gates on the east end of the terminal. When complete, the new terminal will boast 11 modern gates—nearly doubling our capacity and opening the door to more flights, more destinations, and more choices for Iowa travelers.”
The timeline for full completion runs from 2027 to 2030. Importantly, this transformation is happening sooner and with less cost than originally anticipated. It is also being accomplished with broad community support, public investment, and careful financial stewardship.
“We see this project as a statement about Central Iowa’s future. The Authority Board and Staff see this infrastructure supporting growth, attracting new opportunities, and ensuring that our airport remains safe, accessible, and welcoming to every traveler,” Mulcahy said.
The Airport Authority invites the community to see how this transformation will unfold by visiting https://youtu.be/TM5N13QNVkQ to view a short video on the project phasing and design.