Breathtaking: Portland Airport unveils its new main terminal

Portland International Airport (PDX) in the US state of Oregon has unveiled its brand new main terminal, which features a design unique to the Pacific Northwest.

The planning and construction of the terminal took three years and the official opening took place on August 14, 2024.

PDX has always been a unique airport that captures the unique spirit of Portland, and after getting a tour of the beautiful new main terminal over the weekend, it’s great to see this continue – creating a spacious environment that enhances the travel experience! pic.twitter.com/jbN3LevbN2

— Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (@RepLCD) 13 August 2024

According to the airport, the new terminal was built and designed by more than 30,000 local craftsmen and now has twice the passenger capacity due to its larger area.

The main theme and design of the terminal features plenty of local wood, natural light and lush greenery, reflecting the natural landscape of the Pacific Northwest.

“Throughout the project, our focus has been: How can we make the new PDX reflect the pride and love we all feel for the region? And that question has been the starting point for every decision,” said Curtis Robinhold, executive director of the Port of Portland, in a statement.

“Working with small, local businesses and using local materials, filling the new PDX with local art and shops from our favorite neighborhoods – and of course bringing back the iconic rug. All of this was made possible by the great love of locals for the Pacific Northwest,” added Robinhold.

Wider, more efficient

The improvements for travelers in the new terminal go beyond aesthetics and include technological upgrades. To make the screening process more efficient, expanded Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints with new equipment have been installed. Additionally, travelers can now check in at airline ticket counters arranged in four islands to streamline the travel process.

A watering hole for plane spotters

Another unique feature of the new PDX terminal is a planespotters’ corner and bar. Local Oregon brewery Local Legion has opened in the terminal, serving 96 Oregon beers on tap with a clear view of the runway. Planespotters and visitors will be pleased to hear that no tickets are required to access this area.

Alaska Airlines’ Lobby of the Future

PDX is Alaska Airlines’ second-largest hub, and the airline has invested in innovative technologies and processes to move its guests more smoothly through the airport lobby and through security in five minutes or less.

“The PDX baggage drop will utilize some of the latest innovations in computer vision to deliver the convenience and efficiency of automated baggage handling while ensuring user safety and compliance with TSA ID screening requirements,” said Myles Tzelepis, chief technology officer at self-service technology company Embross.

Alaska Airlines check-in counters have Apple iPad-equipped baggage tag stations where baggage tags can be printed by simply scanning a mobile boarding pass.

Guests can also use automated bag drop stations that scan and accept their checked baggage, including securely matching travelers to their government-issued IDs without having to wait in line for an agent.

“Nearly 90% of our passengers now check in before arriving at the airport, so we’ve introduced our lobby experience of the future in Portland. It simplifies bag drop and quickly guides guests through the lobby so they can take advantage of everything the new terminal has to offer,” said Charu Jain, senior vice president of innovation and merchandising at Alaska Airlines.

What’s next?

According to the airport, the $2.15 billion expansion will be realized in two phases. The next and final phase will begin on August 15, 2024. This includes the construction of permanent exit lanes, meet-and-greet areas and even more local shops and restaurants. These are expected to be completed in early 2026.

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