Nashville Airport Unveils Plan for $1.2B Upgrades

By Laura Calugar  

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) and Mayor Megan Barry revealed the new look, feel and design of BNA Vision, the growth and expansion plan for Nashville International Airport. Music City got its first detailed look at the final plans for the renovation of the terminal and new plaza at BNA, which include a hotel and transit station to accommodate plans for future light rail development. MNAA first announced its preliminary plan for BNA Vision in 2016. Corgan is the lead designer of the $1.2 billion project.

“Nashville International Airport is a critical component of our region’s continued economic development and our front door for travelers from across the globe. With the inspiration found in BNA Vision, we intend to put the very best of Music City center stage from arrival to departure,” said Nashville Mayor Megan Barry, in a prepared statement.

Major expansion underway

Steep passenger increases and robust regional growth have ushered in the need for a major airport expansion. In the 2017 fiscal year ending June 30, more than 13.5 million passengers traveled into and out of BNA, setting an all-time passenger record for the fourth consecutive fiscal year. Current projections estimate passenger traffic will exceed 23 million by 2041.“BNA’s pace of growth demanded proactive planning and this capital expansion project is designed to meet the needs of the region’s passengers, both business and leisure travelers, for decades to come,” said Bobby Joslin, chair of the MNAA board of commissioners.

The design features elements inspired by the authentic craftsmanship of instruments, especially the acoustic guitar.

The project includes:

• expanded parking spaces
• concourses and lobby areas
• addition of new gates
• development of an international arrivals building
• increased federal security screening lanes
• construction of an on-site hotel
• addition of a multi-modal transit connector

“With passenger traffic continuing at a record clip, it is critical that we keep pace with our passengers’ needs for safety, convenience, amenities and new nonstop service,” said MNAA Acting President & CEO Doug Kreulen.

No local tax dollars will be used to fund BNA Vision. Currently, 13 airlines serve BNA, offering 450 daily flights. Nashville International Airport provides nonstop air service to more than 50 destinations. The expansion project is expected to be complete in 2023.

Video courtesy of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority