Tampa International Airport Reveals Final Design for $1.5 Billion Airside D Terminal

Tampa International Airport wrapped up design work on its new Airside D terminal. This $1.5 billion project will boost yearly passenger capacity from 25 million to 35 million travelers by 2037. The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority board learned the project hit 100% design completion, clearing the path for full-scale building to begin.

The 600,000-square-foot facility will be TPA's first new airside in almost 20 years. Sixteen gates will serve passengers. A customs facility and baggage system will operate inside.

"The way that that building is going to look, the way that that building is going to function and operate has been completely designed out," said CEO Michael Stephens, according to WTSP. "So, we are at what we call pencils down, and now it's down to construction and executing on that vision."

At least 10 new food and retail options will fill the terminal. Plans include a children's play area, a quiet room, and two passenger lounges.

Public input sessions last year gathered feedback that shaped many features. Passengers who previewed the designs wanted more greenery, openness, and natural light.

"I love the open concept," said passenger John Renaker. "I love the natural light that I saw. From an architectural standpoint, it was very appealing."

Airport officials describe Airside D as the final phase in TPA's growth strategy. The plan targets rising travel demand across the Tampa Bay region well into the next decade.

Construction on the new terminal started in December 2024. Workers expect to finish in 2028.

TPA also announced a Call for Artists to expand the airport's public art collection into the new terminal. Artists can apply through March 19 for a chance to create one of several installations planned for Airside D, as well as new security screening checkpoints in Airsides A and E, which opened in 2025.