Key Takeaways
• Mobile International Airport’s new terminal opens fall 2026 with five initial gates, expandable to twelve.
• Project budget is $381 million; construction on schedule despite delays and market challenges.
• All commercial flights move from Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to new BFM terminal by November 2026.
The new terminal at Mobile International Airport is set to open in fall 2026, marking a major milestone for air travel and economic growth in the Gulf Coast region. The project, which has been years in the making, will bring modern facilities, improved accessibility, and expanded services to travelers and airlines alike. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this means for the community, airlines, and anyone planning to travel through Mobile in the coming years.
A New Era for Air Travel in Mobile
The Mobile International Airport (BFM) terminal construction is on schedule for substantial completion by September 2026, with the first commercial flight expected by November 2026. This timeline follows careful planning and adjustments by the Mobile Airport Authority (MAA) to ensure the project stays within its $381 million budget. The decision to prioritize budget over speed came after facing construction market pressures and weather-related delays, leading to two timeline adjustments. Despite these changes, the project remains on track, and the community can look forward to a state-of-the-art airport terminal in just over a year.
Key Features of the New Terminal
The new terminal will open with five gates, but it’s designed to expand up to twelve gates as demand grows. This flexibility is crucial for future growth and ensures the airport can handle more flights and passengers over time. When the terminal opens, major airlines—Delta, United, and American—will move all their commercial operations from the older Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to the new BFM terminal.
Travelers can expect a range of modern amenities, including:
- Spacious gate areas for comfortable waiting and boarding
- Dining and retail options to enhance the travel experience
- An executive lounge for business travelers and frequent flyers
- ADA-compliant facilities to ensure accessibility for all passengers
- Modern security and passenger amenities for safety and convenience
The terminal’s design also focuses on sustainability, with plans to achieve LEED Platinum certification and net-zero energy readiness. This means the building will use less energy and have a smaller impact on the environment, setting a new standard for airport construction in the region.
Improved Parking and Access
One of the most anticipated features is the new five-level parking garage, offering 1,250 spaces. This addition will help solve previous congestion issues and make it much easier for travelers to park and access the terminal. An elevated roadway will further streamline drop-offs and pick-ups, making the entire process smoother for passengers and their families.
The parking garage and elevated roadway are expected to be finished by March 2026, well ahead of the terminal’s opening. This early completion will allow for testing and adjustments, ensuring everything runs smoothly from day one.
Why the Move Matters: Transition from MOB to BFM
The shift from Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to Mobile International Airport (BFM) is a central part of the MAA’s 20-year Master Plan. The new terminal is located at Brookley Aeroplex, much closer to downtown Mobile and major highways. This central location will make air travel more convenient for people living in Mobile, Baldwin Counties, and the broader Gulf Coast area.
When the new terminal opens, all commercial airline operations will move to BFM, and MOB will stop handling commercial passenger flights. This transition is expected to:
- Lower airfares by attracting more airlines and competition
- Increase direct flight options for travelers
- Boost tourism by making Mobile more accessible to visitors
- Drive economic development in the downtown area and beyond
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes are likely to have a positive ripple effect throughout the region, attracting new businesses and creating jobs related to travel, hospitality, and logistics.
Staying on Budget: A Key Priority
The $381 million budget for the terminal construction has been a guiding factor throughout the project. Luckett Robinson, Chairman of the Mobile Airport Authority, explained the importance of this approach: “We had to decide whether being on budget or being time was more important. The mayor and I agreed that completing it on budget was the biggest priority.” This focus on financial discipline led to some adjustments, such as scaling back on certain features like the number of security cameras and some interior finishes. However, these changes were made without sacrificing the core functionality and quality of the terminal.
Construction Progress and Milestones
As of July 2025, the project has reached several major milestones:
- Steel framework for the terminal is complete
- Concourse concrete slab has been poured
- Significant progress on the parking garage and apron
The current focus is on “drying in” the terminal, which means installing the roof and exterior walls to protect the interior from weather. Once this is done, work will shift to building out the inside of the terminal, finishing the apron (the area where planes park), and completing the elevated roadways.
Community and Stakeholder Support
The new terminal project has received strong support from local, state, and federal officials. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and U.S. Senator Richard Shelby have both highlighted the economic and connectivity benefits the airport will bring to the Gulf Coast region. City officials, including Mayor Sandy Stimpson and MAA President Chris Curry, have emphasized the project’s role in transforming regional air service and making Mobile a more attractive destination for business and tourism.
Airlines are also supportive of the move, expecting improved facilities and a better experience for passengers. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many residents excited about the modern amenities and improved access the new terminal will provide.
Background: How We Got Here
The journey to a new terminal at Mobile International Airport began with the MAA’s 20-year Master Plan, which received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after an expedited 18-month review. The goal was to move all commercial air service from the older, less convenient MOB on the city’s west side to the more centrally located BFM. Groundbreaking for the new terminal took place in 2022, and by late 2023, preconstruction and site preparation—including the demolition of five old military buildings—were complete.
This careful planning and phased approach have allowed the project to stay on track despite challenges from the construction market and weather delays.
What Travelers Need to Know: Transition Plans
As the opening date approaches, airlines and the MAA will work closely to ensure a smooth transition from MOB to BFM. Passengers will receive clear notifications about changes to flight locations, parking procedures, and other important details. The MAA is committed to keeping the community informed through regular updates on their website, BuildBFM.com, and through direct communication channels.
Travelers can expect:
- Advance notice of any changes to flight locations
- Clear instructions for parking and terminal access
- Support from airport staff during the transition period
This proactive approach aims to minimize confusion and make the move as seamless as possible for everyone involved.
Economic Impact: More Than Just an Airport
The opening of the new terminal is expected to have a wide-reaching impact on the local economy. By attracting more airlines and offering more direct flights, the airport will make it easier for businesses to connect with partners and customers across the country. Lower fares and better service can also encourage more people to visit Mobile, boosting tourism and supporting local hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
The airport’s location near downtown and major highways makes it a key asset for economic development. As more travelers pass through Mobile International Airport, the city is likely to see new investment in areas like hospitality, retail, and transportation. This growth can create jobs and improve quality of life for residents throughout the region.
Sustainability and Future Growth
The terminal’s design reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. By aiming for LEED Platinum certification and net-zero energy readiness, the airport is setting a high standard for environmental responsibility. These features will help reduce energy use, lower operating costs, and minimize the airport’s impact on the environment.
Looking ahead, the terminal is built for expansion. As passenger demand increases, the airport can add more gates and services without major disruptions. This flexibility ensures that Mobile International Airport can continue to grow and serve the needs of the community for decades to come.
Stakeholder Perspectives: What Different Groups Are Saying
- Airport Authority: Focused on delivering long-term value, maintaining financial discipline, and ensuring the airport meets the region’s needs.
- City and State Officials: Emphasize the project’s role in driving economic growth, improving tourism, and making air travel more accessible.
- Airlines: Support the move to a modern facility, expecting better operations and happier passengers.
- Community: Excited about the new amenities, improved access, and the positive impact on the local economy.
How to Stay Informed
For the latest updates, construction photos, and transition details, travelers and community members can visit BuildBFM.com. The Mobile Airport Authority also provides regular updates through their official channels and is available to answer questions from the public.
Official Resources and Contacts
- Mobile Airport Authority (MAA): BuildBFM.com
- FAA: faa.gov (for information on airport regulations and approvals)
- City of Mobile: mobileairportauthority.com
For direct questions, Devon Calametti, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Mobile Airport Authority, can be reached at 251-243-8080 or [email protected].
What’s Next: Looking Toward Fall 2026
As construction continues, the focus will remain on meeting the fall 2026 opening date while staying within budget. The MAA, city officials, and airline partners are working together to ensure the new terminal meets the highest standards for safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Travelers can look forward to:
- A modern, spacious terminal with room to grow
- Improved parking and access
- More flight options and lower fares
- A positive impact on the local economy and community
The opening of the new terminal at Mobile International Airport is more than just a construction project—it’s a major step forward for the region’s future. By bringing together modern design, sustainability, and a focus on community needs, the airport is set to become a gateway to new opportunities for Mobile and the entire Gulf Coast.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the successful completion of this project will not only improve air travel but also help shape the economic and social landscape of the region for years to come. For anyone planning to travel through Mobile or considering a move to the area, the new terminal represents a bright future and a commitment to progress.
For more information on airport regulations and the broader impact of airport projects, visit the official Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website. This resource offers detailed guidance on airport planning, safety, and compliance for travelers and industry professionals alike.
Action Steps for Travelers and Residents
- Stay updated by checking BuildBFM.com for news and announcements
- Plan ahead for changes to flight locations and parking as the opening date approaches
- Reach out to the Mobile Airport Authority with any questions or concerns
With the opening of the new terminal in fall 2026, Mobile International Airport is poised to become a leading hub for travel, business, and community growth in the Gulf Coast region.
Learn Today
Terminal → The main building at an airport where passengers board and disembark from aircraft.
LEED Platinum → The highest certification for environmentally friendly building design and energy efficiency.
Concourse → An open area within the terminal connecting gates and facilities for passengers.
Apron → The airport area where aircraft are parked, loaded, unloaded, and refueled.
Net-zero energy → A building that produces as much energy as it consumes over a year.
This Article in a Nutshell
Mobile International Airport’s new terminal, opening fall 2026, promises modern amenities, expanded gates, and improved accessibility. This $381 million project shifts commercial flights from MOB to BFM, boosting regional economy, enhancing travel convenience, and setting new sustainability standards with LEED Platinum and net-zero energy readiness certification goals.
— By VisaVerge.com
