PITTSBURGH — The Transformed Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) officially opened today, unveiling a state-of-the-art terminal that positions the airport as a national model for energy self-sufficiency, operational resiliency, economic development, and a streamlined passenger experience.
The opening marks the completion of more than four years of construction and a decade of planning, delivering a modern airport designed specifically for Western Pennsylvania’s travelers. Designed by Gensler + HDR, in association with luis vidal + architects, the new terminal represents a reimagined front door to the Pittsburgh region.
“This new terminal is both a bold statement to the world about what an airport can be — and a love letter to our community,” said Christina Cassotis, CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport. “It’s an airport built for Pittsburgh, by Pittsburgh.”
A model of energy resilience and innovation
At the core of the Transformed Pittsburgh International Airport is an industry-first microgrid, making PIT fully energy self-sufficient through on-site natural gas reserves and solar power — a first for a major U.S. airport. The airport also houses Neighborhood 91, the world’s first airport-based additive manufacturing campus, reinforcing PIT’s role as a regional economic engine and technology incubator.
The $1.7 billion terminal was constructed without local or state taxpayer dollars and underwent months of rigorous systems testing, including public trials with more than 2,000 community participants, who rated the terminal highly for design and functionality.
Built for today’s passenger
The new terminal replaces an outdated facility designed for a single-airline hub and instead supports 15 airlines as an origin-and-destination airport, reflecting modern travel patterns.
Immediate passenger benefits include:
- One consolidated TSA checkpoint with 12 screening lanes and automated bin returns
- Baggage delivery times reduced by up to 50%
- A new international arrivals facility designed for faster processing
- Expanded parking options, including a new 3,300-space garage with smart parking technology
- Four outdoor terraces, a rare feature in U.S. airports
- Twenty new or refreshed retail and dining options, featuring local and national brands
The terminal also introduces PIT’s Welcome Point, a uniquely Pittsburgh feature designed for travelers and families to greet arriving passengers in person.
Design rooted in place and purpose
Spanning 811,000 square feet across three levels, the terminal reflects the region’s identity through its NaTeCo (Nature, Technology, Community) design philosophy. Architectural highlights include:
- A sweeping roofline inspired by the Allegheny Mountains
- Tree-like steel columns evoking regional forests
- Constellation lighting referencing Western Pennsylvania night skies
- Biophilic terraces landscaped with native plant species
The project is pursuing LEED Gold certification, utilizing locally sourced and recycled materials, rainwater harvesting, and climate-resilient systems.
Economic impact and regional pride
The Transformed Pittsburgh International Airport generated an estimated $2.5 billion in regional economic impact and supported over 14,000 jobs, with approximately 90% of labor and materials sourced locally. More than 16,000 tons of structural steel used in the project were fabricated in the Pittsburgh region.
“This is a terminal built by, and for, the Pittsburgh region,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, calling the new airport an “industry-leading icon.”
A new gateway to the world
Serving nearly 10 million passengers annually, PIT’s new terminal redefines the role of an airport in the modern era — not just as a transportation hub, but as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and community pride.
With its opening, the Transformed Pittsburgh International Airport sets a new benchmark for how airports can serve passengers, strengthen regional economies, and lead the future of sustainable aviation.
