OKC Will Rogers World Airport is beginning a large-scale expansion to prepare for future increases in passenger traffic, including anticipated growth linked to major events like the 2028 Summer Olympics. Airport public information officer Stacy Hamm outlined a multi-phase development plan designed to expand capacity from 4.5 million to 20 million passengers over the next three decades. The initial phase focuses on enhancing parking facilities to support higher volumes during busy travel times. "Instead of being reactive, we’re trying to be proactive," Hamm told KOCO.
The ambitious timeline revealed by Jeff Mulder, Director of Airports in OKC, through an KFOR interview, highlights the urgency of the airport's expansion, with construction of new parking facilities expected to begin as soon as next year. Mulder presented a distinct vision for the airport, admitting, "We don’t have enough capacity." A breakdown of the master plan indicates the airport will be expanded in three phases over a 25-year period, tackling 25 projects to bolster infrastructure affordably.
Facilitating efficient movement of passengers and planes, phase two and three are set to introduce additional gates, security lanes, and expanded concourses, plus a progressive broader road to the airport. "The ones that we have are old and undersized," Mulder commented to KFOR, further emphasizing the need to expand to 40 gates. The final phases are also expected to build on the significant renovations completed in 2021.
As part of long-term planning, airport officials are also exploring the possibility of establishing a passenger rail connection between the airport and downtown, according to Bob Ross, Vice Chair of the airport board. OKC FOX reported on how the airport intends to manage construction while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations. The outlet noted that once the new parking garage is completed, the existing terminal roadways will be removed, and both arrivals and departures will temporarily operate at ground level.
In response to increasing travel and transportation needs, these initiatives are designed to prepare OKC for projected future demand. With the city expected to host events during the 2028 Olympics, the airport’s expansion efforts reflect ongoing regional development and plans to enhance overall connectivity.
