MIA’s Concourse D to be reimagined in $1 billion expansion project

Miami International Airport (MIA) and American Airlines have unveiled plans for a $1 billion investment programme to reimagine and expand Concourse D at the Florida gateway.

The upgrade is expected to define the next generation of travel and marks a huge vote of confidence in the airport, which the US carrier has served for nearly 40 years.

Indeed, American Airlines CEO, Robert Isom, spelt out the importance of Miami International Airport to his airline when outlining the upgrade.

“Miami is an essential hub and international gateway for American, and it’s a key part of our history and our future,” said Isom.

“The brand-new, reimagined D60 is a transformational project that will provide a much-improved experience for our customers and our team.

“This investment — alongside new premium lounges and new routes — reflects our shared commitment with Miami-Dade County and the airport to ensure Miami remains the preeminent US gateway to Latin America.”

Set to break ground in 2027, the Gate D60 project charts the next chapter of travel at MIA, with a new concourse expansion designed for a premier airport.

Currently equipped to support ground operations for smaller regional jets, the new three-level Concourse D extension will create 17 new aircraft gates to accommodate larger aircraft and eliminate outside boarding.

The project will expand a single shared boarding area to include adjoining boarding spaces for every gate to improve flow and provide customers with more space and comfort.

The expansion makes international travel more seamless with future capability to accommodate international arrivals and direct third-floor access to the MIA customs hall. The new concourse will feature bright, expansive spaces with sprawling indoor palm trees, as well as new dining and shopping options for travellers.

“The D60 expansion is one of the most monumental customer service improvements within our unprecedented airport-wide modernisation plan, which will transform the passenger experience at MIA from the cabin to the curb over the next five years,” said Miami-Dade County mayor, Daniella Levine Cava.

POWERING GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY

American’s current operations are around 400 departures a day. The airline plans to run its largest summer schedule ever this year and operate more than 380 peak daily flights from MIA to 155 destinations across 45 countries.

The airline accounts for more than 60% of traffic at MIA and continues its streak of record flying.

MIA serves as its international gateway, delivering an industry-leading network to Latin America and the Caribbean and giving customers access to more than 90 unique destinations, served only by American at MIA, including new service this year to Milan, Italy, and Bimini, Bahamas.

“American and Miami-Dade have built a partnership across decades that intertwines our success and vitality. We share a vision and legacy that has elevated Miami into the leading global gateway it is today — and positions us for exciting growth ahead,” enthused American’s vice president of MIA operations Juan Carlos Liscano.

“Our continued momentum is powered by 15,500 MIA-based team members who reflect the vibrancy of the communities we serve and embody our pride in being Miami’s hometown airline.

“This expansion is a testament to our commitment for the long term — thanks to our customers, our team and our partners at Miami-Dade County.”