Trump Plans Overhaul of Dulles Airport
President Trump is aiming to renovate Washington Dulles International Airport, a federally owned facility near the nation’s capital. Earlier this year, he reviewed three-dimensional models from various design and engineering firms, helping him visualize potential improvements. Multiple sources informed CBS News that the tabletop models were frequently transported to the White House for Trump’s evaluation. He personally examined and made changes to plans concerning the terminal transport system, parking facilities, baggage handling, underground trains, and the overall airport appearance.
Trump plans to reveal these designs publicly, with sources suggesting a formal announcement could occur this week from the Oval Office, alongside Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Trump has previously criticized Dulles, calling it a “terrible airport” with inefficient design. He expressed dissatisfaction with parking located two miles away and described the existing transportation system within the airport as “crazy.”
This project follows other redesigns led by Trump during his second term, including updates to the White House East Wing, the Kennedy Center, and several parks in Washington. He insists the new plans retain the original sloped-roof design by Eero Saarinen but aims to modernize the interior with an expansive foyer and updated ticket kiosks.
The renovation project, valued at $22.5 billion, will replace the airport’s outdated mobile lounges with an underground U-shaped aerotrain system. These mobile lounges, used for passenger transport since 1962, are unpopular among travelers. The planned aerotrain, supplemented by additional moving sidewalks, will enhance terminal access. New concourses will replace the older structures, with the parking lot being relocated for convenience.
Recently, Trump led charrettes to assess proposals from construction and finance executives. Around 30 firms, such as HNTB, STV Group, Jacobs, Ferrovial, and AECOM, submitted plans. Despite varied designs, Trump favored an option that builds on the airport’s current infrastructure, selecting a proposal that collaborates with United Airlines, which services two-thirds of Dulles’ passengers. United CEO Scott Kirby consulted with Trump on the project. Under this plan, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) will issue tax-exempt bonds to finance the project, with United handling construction and repaying through operational revenue.
While proposals included several ambitious designs, Trump’s decision was guided by continuity and collaboration with United. The rejection of a proposed takeover by asset management firm BlackRock further ensured the airport’s operations remain consistent.
In addition to terminal improvements, there will be opportunities for public-private partnerships in enhancing other airport areas, potentially including a new convention center and additional parking. Frequent travelers at Dulles, some critical of the mobile lounges, may find relief and optimism in these planned changes.