The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) and Delta Air Lines announce the completion of the largest-ever interior renovation of Terminal 1 concourses and passenger gate areas at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).
The MAC and Delta collaborated on the Airport Modernisation Program, a $242 million construction project managed by Delta to create a unified and modern design across six of the terminal’s seven concourses and approximately 75 Delta gate hold rooms.
Delta operates its second-largest hub at MSP and has a 70% passenger market share at the airport.
Brian Ryks, CEO of the MAC, which owns and operates MSP Airport, said: “In a matter of two years, we have witnessed a major transformation of the post-security areas of Terminal 1 that elevates the passenger experience — from the checkpoints to the gate areas.
“Delta has been a tremendous partner helping to deliver more modern spaces that enhance MSP’s award-winning customer service.”
The extensive renovations began in the fall of 2023. Some of the notable improvements include new terrazzo or carpet flooring, wall finishes, LED lighting, and improved building systems, which are mostly enclosed above new metal-panel ceilings.
The Delta gate areas underwent a full refresh, including new seating, carpeting, counters and signage.
One of the most visible enhancements is the addition of dynamic gate signs along the concourse walkways, which allow passengers to see flight and destination information more quickly and from farther down the concourse.
Jeannine Ashworth, Delta Vice President of Airport Operations, said: “Minneapolis-St. Paul is a vital hub for Delta, enabling our customers to connect to hundreds of destinations across the globe.
“We are so grateful for our partnership with the MAC on the Airport Modernisation Program, which has allowed us to truly elevate the customer experience with modern facilities and amenities that will benefit all of our customers travelling through MSP.”
The Terminal 1 interior renovations started while the final phases of a separate, 10-year campaign were underway to expand and modernise all the pre-security areas, including the complete makeover of checkpoints, ticketing functions and baggage claim. MSP’s Operational Improvements Program was completed earlier this fall.
Bridget Rief, MAC vice president of planning and development, said: “It’s been an intense decade of projects and improvements to transform this terminal into a modern facility.
“In all, these projects enabled us to accommodate the future growth of passenger volume, improve systems and operations, and deliver bright and welcoming spaces for our millions of annual travellers and visitors.”
The MAC invested $182.5 million in the Airport Modernisation Program, and Delta contributed $60 million for the improvements.
