Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) reported several key developments in 2025 as part of its Journey With AUS expansion program, aimed at improving passenger experience and preparing for future growth in the city.
On February 28, 2025, AUS began construction on Phase 1 of the Yellow Garage, a seven-level parking structure expected to add about 3,000 spaces by 2026. When Phase 2 is completed in 2027, the garage will offer approximately 7,000 parking spots near the terminal. This phased approach allows for the removal of the Red Garage and paves the way for a new Arrivals and Departures Hall planned for the early 2030s.
In May, construction started on the Atrium Infill Project. By utilizing open space above baggage claim areas, this project aims to increase capacity for security screening and bag-check queuing lanes. The goal is to reduce congestion and improve passenger flow during busy travel periods.
June saw completion of improvements to the International Arrivals area. The upgrades included expanded U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing facilities with more booths and larger queuing spaces. New baggage carousels now allow flexible use between international and domestic flights.
On December 10, AUS celebrated finishing its new Outbound Baggage Handling System. The updated system moves checked luggage across 1.5 miles of conveyor belts and can process up to 4,000 bags per hour. This enhancement is designed to boost reliability and efficiency during peak times.
Looking ahead to 2026, AUS plans to complete several major projects including the Atrium Infill Project, West Infill Project, West Gate Expansion Project, and Yellow Garage Phase 1. Additional projects under Journey With AUS are also set to begin next year.
“Thank you for traveling with us and for your patience as we continue to grow. Every project completed and every milestone reached brings us closer to giving our passengers a more spacious, comfortable and efficient airport experience.”
“We look forward to welcoming you back in 2026 to experience what’s next on the Journey With AUS!”
The City of Austin oversees these initiatives as part of its broader municipal operations in Central Texas along the Colorado River (source). As both capital of Texas and a growing urban center since being renamed from Waterloo in 1839 (source), Austin continues efforts toward sustainable development (source) while managing an annual budget exceeding $5 billion (source). More than 16,000 staff support city services such as policy planning and infrastructure management (source).
For ongoing updates about airport expansion projects or related information about Austin’s city operations, visit https://www.austintexas.gov/AUSJourney.
