Enhancing Accessibility and Efficiency at DFW Airport
As part of a significant $12 billion modernization initiative, Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport has launched the construction of International Parkway, a critical highway that runs through the heart of the airport. This project aims to reconfigure the exits leading to the terminals from the left-hand side of the highway to the right. The changes are designed to enhance traffic flow and improve access for travelers.
Mohamed Charkas, the airport’s executive vice president of infrastructure and development, emphasized the extensive planning involved in this project. “International Parkway required a lot of hours, days, and months of planning because we want to ensure we minimize disruptions while maximizing public access to DFW,” he said. Charkas highlighted the airport’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a park-and-fly destination, ensuring any inconvenience is kept to a minimum.
To achieve this, construction crews have adopted a strategic approach by building new bridges before dismantling the old ones. This method has allowed the team to construct 141 support beams for ramps connecting to Terminals A, B, and C. According to Charkas, this careful planning will limit closures to just 90 days. Without such preparation, detours could last an entire year.
Despite these efforts, some closures will still be necessary. However, Charkas urged travelers to arrive at the airport 30 to 45 minutes earlier than usual to account for potential delays. “We have launched a comprehensive information campaign to keep the public informed about all the detours,” he added.
The airport has also implemented a system for updates. Information about upcoming closures will be posted on dfwairport.com at least 30 days in advance. Additionally, the Department of Public Safety will monitor traffic conditions and guide vehicles if congestion becomes an issue.
Travis Halls, who works with the construction team, noted that the focus has been on minimizing disruption for travelers. “A lot of time and effort has gone into completing as much work as possible ahead of time,” he said. He also mentioned that the detour routes have been carefully planned to ensure they flow efficiently and smoothly.
Another key aspect of the project is the widening of the exits. This improvement is expected to further ease traffic and reduce bottlenecks around the airport.
Construction on International Parkway is set to continue throughout the rest of the year, with a goal of completion before the 2026 World Cup. “We want to make sure our guests have a pleasant journey,” Charkas said. “We’re doing everything possible to finish those bridges prior to the event.”
This project is part of DFW Airport’s broader $9 billion capital improvement plan. In addition to the International Parkway upgrades, the airport is expanding Terminal C by adding more gates and has begun construction on Terminal F, which is expected to open in 2027.
Looking ahead, DFW Airport aims to serve 100 million passengers annually by 2030. These ongoing improvements reflect the airport’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience for millions of visitors each year.
