Richmond Airport Approves New Terminal Security Plans

The Capital Region Airport Commission moves forward with a $250 million security checkpoint upgrade and a rental car connector.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Air Travel

Isometric editorial illustration of a modern airport terminal structure with vaulted ceilings and clean architectural lines. — The Capital Region Airport Commission approved a $250 million security and connector project to modernize Richmond International Airport's aging infrastructure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time for local airports to invest heavily in major terminal upgrades?

The Capital Region Airport Commission officially approved contracts to design a new security checkpoint and build a rental car connector at Richmond International Airport. The expansion aims to modernize the terminal through a multi-million dollar infrastructure investment.

Why it matters

These upgrades reflect ongoing efforts to improve traveler flow and facility capacity amid shifting passenger demand. The commission has also launched a specialized committee to assess the airport's long-term fuel infrastructure and operational needs.

The new security checkpoint will cost $250 million and feature 14 screening lanes, while the $20.6 million rental car connector project spans 30,000 square feet. September 2026 passenger volume reached 397,000, while jet fuel costs rose to $4.68 per gallon in 2026.

The players

Capital Region Airport Commission

This body oversees the operations, development, and strategic planning of Richmond International Airport.

Tazewell Contracting

Based in Norfolk, this company was selected to build the new rental car connector walkway.

Gresham Smith

This firm leads the design team for the airport's new security checkpoint facility.

The details

The design team for the security checkpoint, led by Gresham Smith, includes local firms 3North, KEi Architects, CMTA, and Kimley-Horn. Meanwhile, Tazewell Contracting secured the $20.6 million contract to construct a two-level indoor walkway connecting the parking garage and terminal.

September 2026 saw 397,000 passengers move through the airport.
The commission approved the security and connector contracts on October 27, 2026.
The Special Fuel Systems Committee will report findings in June 2027.
Existing FBO leases at the airport expire in 2031.

Travel Outlook

These infrastructure upgrades follow a pattern set by the Capital Region Airport Commission's master development plan to modernize terminal facilities. The initiative aligns with a broader industry shift toward enhancing passenger throughput and improving connection logistics.

Travelers can expect future construction activity around the terminal and parking garage as the two-level connector project begins. Ongoing updates to the facility may impact arrival routines, so passengers should allocate extra time when traveling through the airport.

The takeaway

Airport authorities are prioritizing long-term infrastructure to accommodate future traffic volume and operational efficiency. Passengers should prepare for changes to terminal access as the airport transitions to these new, expanded security and connection facilities.

What happens next

The Special Fuel Systems Committee is scheduled to report its findings regarding future fuel infrastructure and fixed-base operator needs to the commission in June 2027.