A shiny new $22 million expansion of the terminal at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport will be ready for passengers in late spring, officials said this week.
The first phase of the project to double the terminal’s size is nearing completion as crews put finishing touches on the expanded two-story building. Airport officials say the facility could help attract a new airline to the Unity site.
“We’re looking to open by mid-June,” said airport manager Maurice Haas.
Spirit Airlines is the lone commercial carrier at the airport and flies one route to Orlando at least five days a week. The airline recently announced it will pause Orlando service in mid-April to begin seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Local officials hope the expanded terminal attracts additional carriers to Westmoreland County.
Airport Authority Executive Director Gabe Monzo said this week that negotiations are ongoing with multiple carriers that recently expressed interest in the airport. Monzo declined to reveal specifics but said he was hopeful the board will receive a formal offer in about a month.
As talks continue, construction is hitting the homestretch. Haas this week showed off progress on the two-year project to expand the facility, install a second passenger gate and modernize the building.
The airport operates with one gate and can accommodate about 220 passengers. Haas said once finished, the airport can handle more than 400 passengers and two flights at once.
Paid for primarily with federal and state grants, construction went into high gear last year when steel for the 30,000-square-foot expansion was erected.
When it opens, passengers will enter the terminal, walk up a ramp toward two TSA security lines — one more than the current setup — and emerge into a wide waiting area with two gates. The terminal will feature three leased spaces for private vendors.
Haas said the board next month is expected to seek proposals from businesses to install a snack bar, newsstand and lounge.
“They should be open shortly after we open and all three areas will be occupied (in the new terminal),” Haas said.
The expansion also features upgraded bathrooms and a pet relief area. A new baggage processing area will be located on the first level.
Once finished, work is slated to begin on Phase 2, which will convert existing administrative offices into a second gate area and install new baggage carousels. Offices will relocate to the first level.
Officials say Phase 2 is targeted for completion in the late spring or early summer of 2027.