Spokane Airport Modifies Curbside Access

The terminal upgrades introduce a new bypass road and interim baggage claim area for departing and arriving passengers.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Air Travel

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stylized airport terminal and bypass road, representing modern transit infrastructure updates.
Spokane International Airport has implemented new traffic patterns and an interim baggage claim facility as part of ongoing terminal infrastructure upgrades. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Spokane International Airport has closed a portion of the main terminal curbside area to accommodate ongoing construction. Travelers are now directed to a new two-lane bypass road for pick-up and drop-off activities.

Why it matters

These changes represent the next phase of terminal improvements aimed at modernizing facility infrastructure. The updates require adjustments for passengers navigating between parking garages and the terminal building.

A new two-lane bypass road is now operational to manage vehicle traffic at the airport. Travelers using parking garages must utilize skybridges to reach the terminal, while passengers of specific airlines are directed to an interim baggage claim facility.

The players

Spokane International Airport

This facility serves as the primary commercial aviation hub for the Spokane region.

American Airlines

This major carrier provides scheduled passenger service to and from Spokane International Airport.

Allegiant Air

This airline operates budget-friendly passenger flights through its hub network at the airport.

Alaska Airlines

This airline maintains a significant presence at the airport, connecting the region to various coastal destinations.

The details

Drivers should follow posted signage to navigate the new traffic patterns, while passengers flying with American, Allegiant, and Alaska Airlines will utilize an interim baggage claim facility located in the Concourse C plaza. Travelers should allow extra time to traverse the skybridges connecting the parking garages to the main terminal.

Timeline

  1. October 21, 2026: Curbside access changes take effect at the airport.

  2. March 2027: Demolition of the Concourse C baggage claim area is scheduled to begin.

  3. 2030: Operations of the temporary bypass road and interim baggage facility are expected to conclude.

Travel Outlook

This project reflects a broader trend of mid-sized airports undertaking multi-year terminal renovations to handle rising passenger volumes. Such phased construction efforts typically require long-term logistical adjustments that can temporarily alter standard traffic flow and terminal navigation.

Passengers should anticipate potential delays and follow new directional signage when dropping off or picking up travelers at the curb. Those arriving by vehicle should confirm if their airline uses the interim baggage claim facility located in the Concourse C plaza.

The takeaway

Travelers should verify their specific airline's baggage claim location before arriving at the airport to avoid confusion. Allowing additional time for navigating from parking garages via skybridges will help ensure a smoother experience during these construction phases.

Further reading

For more information on navigating the airport during this transition, visit our Air Travel section.

Live Poll

Do you find that airport terminal construction projects make your travel experience significantly more difficult?