Shaping the Next Generation of Airport Terminal Travel

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) has reached a major milestone in its transformative terminal expansion with the opening of the new Concourse A/B Connector and modernized baggage handling system. These advancements — engineered and administered by Jacobs as prime designer — represent a significant step forward in improving passenger flow, enhancing airline operations and shaping a more connected, efficient and modern travel experience.

The opening marks the first core components within the $500 million expansion, the largest terminal enhancement in the airport’s history.

A seamless new connection for travelers

The newly opened Concourse A/B Connector replaces a longer, more complex route that previously required ramps and escalators. Now, travelers benefit from a direct, intuitive and fully accessible pathway that unites the two concourses and simplifies movement throughout the terminal.

The connector also links to a new 29,000-square-foot concessions marketplace — a vibrant, naturally daylit space with expanded dining and retail offerings. Adjacent improvements include state-of-the-art smart restrooms and five new, larger holdrooms designed to support Southwest Airlines’ growing fleet of 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Together, these improvements create a cohesive passenger experience centered on convenience and comfort.

A next-generation baggage handling system

Alongside the connector, BWI has placed into service its new inline baggage handling system — a critical modernization designed to meet increasing demand and support long-term growth.

The airport’s old system wasn’t designed for current passenger volume and frequently experienced jams. The new system features upgraded scanning equipment, expanded capacity and improved reliability. It also introduces conveyors for domestic baggage transfers and recheck of international baggage, automating processes that were previously handled manually — resulting in faster, more efficient luggage movement across the airport.

A major step toward full program completion

“These upgrades were designed with the passenger at the center. By simplifying movement through the terminal and modernizing baggage operations, we’re creating a smoother, more intuitive experience that reflects the evolving expectations of today’s travelers,” says Jacobs Vice President and East Region Director of Aviation Pete Butler. “These systems reflect the strong collaboration, innovation and dedication that continue to shape the future of the airport.”

“The initial program started in 2019 with a $525 million construction budget — however, there was a design pause and a $100 million reduction in budget due to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Maryland Aviation Administration Director of Engineering and Construction Thomas Varughese. “The Jacobs team collaborated with all stakeholders and the program management team to complete the project on schedule and within the reduced budget.”

The opening of the Concourse A/B Connector and Baggage Handling System project is the result of extensive planning, design and collaboration. As BWI moves toward full completion of the terminal expansion, the opening of these two cornerstone elements celebrates both progress and possibility — ushering in a more seamless, modern and passenger-focused travel experience for years to come.