The world’s busiest airport has unveiled details of its proposed $6 billion, 20-year project to upgrade facilities.
The ‘ATLNext’ project slated for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will include a new runway, concourse, more parking space, and a new 400-room hotel.
The plan also calls for a canopy to be constructed which will allow passengers to walk from the terminal building to their cars without being exposed to the weather.
"We will launch a new $6 billion capital program starting with the modernization of the airports domestic terminal. Most of the modern airports protect their passengers from the elements as you go from the terminal into your vehicle," airport general manager Miguel Southwell said.
The first phase is the near $400 million terminal modernization project which is expected to be completed by 2018.
Along with terminal upgrades, airport authorities are targeting improved wait times for security screenings.
"We believe that the time it takes to get through security screening should be no longer than the time it takes for a routine doctor’s examination. Americans will not tolerate a one-hour wait as normal," Southwell said.
"It’s hurting our business," he said.
Atlanta handled 101.5 million passengers last year, passing the 100 million mark for the first time.
A sixth runway, which is expected to cost nearly $1 billion, is scheduled for 2023-2034.
