RSW’s $1 Billion Makeover: Fort Myers Airport Soars into the Future with Massive Expansion

By Naples News Now | December 16, 2024

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is currently experiencing a significant expansion project aimed at accommodating the increasing demands of air travel in the area. The project is divided into two primary phases:

Stage One

The initial phase, commencing in 2021, was projected to incur a cost of $331 million and require a duration of three years for completion. This phase has encountered delays and is presently in a state of uncertainty, pending redesign. This phase originally encompassed:

  • Combining TSA checkpoints into a new 16-lane setup
  • Increasing the number of seating and concession areas
  • Establishing a business lounge
  • Renovating 164,000 square feet of current facilities Incorporating 117,000 square feet of additional walkways and concession areas

Stage Two

The second phase, being the more extensive segment of the expansion, received approval in September 2024, with a budget exceeding $1 billion. This stage encompasses:

  • A new Concourse E is being constructed, featuring 14 additional gates, with the potential for future expansion to 33 gates.
  • Expansion of the airport terminal across all three levels
  • New ticketing lobby and baggage claim area.
  • Execution of a novel baggage management system
  • Enhancements to the airside
  • Expansion of the chiller plant
  • Enhancements to roadways and curbs

Schedule and Expenses
This project stands as the most significant public works endeavor ever undertaken in Lee County’s history. Below is a detailed overview of the timeline and expenses:

  • Phase 1: Initially set to be completed in late 2024, but now postponed with no specific completion date provided
  • Phase 2: Construction commenced on October 1, 2024, with an anticipated completion date of December 1, 2027.
  • The total budget allocated for Phase 2 is around $1.06 billion.

The project receives funding from multiple sources, such as airport revenue bonds, passenger facility charges, and grants provided by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation.

Effects and Anticipated Developments

Once finished, the enlarged airport is anticipated to:

  • Address the region’s requirements through 2036.
  • Manage an anticipated rise to almost 17.5 million travelers by 2041
  • Enhance passenger movement and streamline airport operations

Airport officials have indicated that passengers will remain unaffected during the initial months of Phase 2 construction, despite ongoing work. As the project moves forward, travelers can anticipate certain changes and possible disruptions to the usual airport operations.

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