Trump unveils USD 22.5bn modernization plan for Washington Airport

Dhaka: US President Donald Trump has announced a major USD 22.5 billion modernization project for Washington Dulles International Airport, aiming to transform the facility with upgraded passenger infrastructure and improved travel experience.

The renovation plan will replace the airport’s decades-old “people movers” — mobile lounges used to transport passengers between the terminal and aircraft — with a new automated passenger train system, a central pedestrian tunnel, additional moving walkways, and redesigned concourses.

The project will also include a new above-ground parking facility near the main terminal with capacity for around 32,000 vehicles. Construction could begin next spring, according to officials.

Trump described the upgrade as a necessary step to make Dulles one of the world’s leading airports, criticizing the current layout for requiring passengers to walk long distances. The airport handled nearly 29 million passengers in the past year.

The modernization will be funded primarily through airport-generated revenues, airline contributions, and municipal bonds, according to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, which operates Dulles.

Located about 40 kilometers from downtown Washington, Dulles is a major international hub and one of the key airports serving the US capital region. The airport’s current people mover system has been in operation since the facility opened in 1962 and has faced increasing criticism from travelers over delays and reliability issues.