Key Takeaways
• Gulf Shores Airport expects 60,000 passengers in 2025, 80% visitors, post Allegiant Air flights launch in May 2025.
• Current 17,500 sq ft terminal costs $8M; expansion study began July 2025 with a decision in Fall 2025.
• Expansion aims to add gates, curbside space, and baggage claim; improves access and generates local jobs.
A surge in passenger demand is pushing Gulf Shores International Airport to consider a major terminal expansion just months after opening its new facility. The airport, located in Gulf Shores, Alabama, is responding to rapid growth following the launch of commercial flights by Allegiant Air in May 2025. Officials are now studying how to expand the terminal to better serve both local residents and the many visitors who use the airport.
Why Gulf Shores International Airport Is Considering Expansion
Since Allegiant Air began commercial service on May 21, 2025, Gulf Shores International Airport has seen a sharp increase in travelers. The airport expects to handle about 60,000 passengers in 2025, with 80% of those being visitors and the remaining 20% local residents. This growth has put pressure on the airport’s new terminal, which opened in March 2025 and was designed to be small and cost-effective.
Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh explained, “We have to stay ahead of airline scheduling cycles, which are set six to nine months in advance. Our goal is to make sure the airport meets the needs of both residents and visitors, offering convenience and low fares.” Fosnaugh’s comments highlight the challenge of planning for future growth while keeping the airport easy to use and affordable.
Details of the Terminal and the Planned Expansion
The current terminal at Gulf Shores International Airport is 17,500 square feet and cost $8 million to build. The project was funded in part by a $5 million federal grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and a $3 million interest-free loan from the City of Gulf Shores. The terminal features two gates and four parking spots for narrow-body planes.
With the recent spike in passenger numbers, the airport authority is now working with Vasey Aviation Group to study options for expanding the terminal. The study, which began in July 2025, is looking at several key areas:
- Expanding the gate area to handle more flights at once
- Increasing curbside space for easier drop-off and pick-up
- Enlarging baggage claim facilities to speed up luggage collection
A final decision on whether to move forward with construction and how to pay for it is expected in Fall 2025. If approved, the expansion will help the airport keep up with growing demand and improve the travel experience for everyone.
How the Expansion Could Affect Travelers and the Community
The terminal expansion at Gulf Shores International Airport is expected to bring several benefits:
- Easier Access: By offering more flights and better facilities, the airport can help reduce road congestion into Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. In 2023, these areas saw 6.4 million visitors, many of whom arrived by car.
- Better Services: The terminal already offers ground transportation options like Enterprise, Alamo, Surfside Shuttle, Robin’s Rides, Beach Express Taxi, Uber, and Lyft. Local police, fire, and public works departments also support the airport.
- More Amenities: In July 2025, LuLu’s, a popular local restaurant, will open a kiosk in the terminal, giving travelers more food and drink choices.
- Economic Growth: The expansion is expected to create jobs, both at the airport and in the wider community. About 50 people already work in airport operations, with more jobs likely as the airport grows. The city and airport will also benefit from new revenue streams as more travelers use the facility.
Background: How Gulf Shores International Airport Got Here
The push to bring commercial flights to Gulf Shores began in 2022. At that time, the airport authority and city leaders worked together to secure funding and plan a terminal that could be expanded later if needed. The FAA provided a $5 million grant under the Airport Terminals Program, and the City of Gulf Shores added a $3 million interest-free loan.
The original terminal was built small on purpose. If commercial service didn’t work out, the building could be turned into a hangar for private planes. But with the arrival of Allegiant Air and the success of its first flights, it’s clear that demand for commercial air travel is strong.
Allegiant Air’s launch brought six nonstop routes to cities like Knoxville, Cincinnati, Houston, Bentonville/Fayetteville, Belleville, and Kansas City. These flights, which started between May 21 and May 24, 2025, have made it much easier for people to visit Gulf Shores and for locals to travel to other parts of the country.
Key Players in the Expansion Effort
Several groups and individuals are playing important roles in the terminal expansion:
- Jesse Fosnaugh, Airport Director: Fosnaugh is leading the planning process, working to make sure the airport can keep up with airline schedules and traveler needs.
- Vasey Aviation Group: This company is handling the design study for the expansion. They also helped complete the original terminal on time.
- City of Gulf Shores: The city has provided financial support and is involved in ongoing planning.
- Federal Aviation Administration: The FAA’s grant was crucial for building the current terminal, and more federal funding may be needed for the expansion.
What’s Happening Now: The Step-by-Step Process
The process for expanding the terminal is moving forward in several stages:
- Design Evaluation: Vasey Aviation Group is studying different ways to expand the terminal, focusing on gates, curbside space, and baggage claim.
- Stakeholder Consultation: The airport authority is talking with airlines, city officials, and community members to get input on the design and funding.
- Decision Timeline: A final decision on whether to expand and how to pay for it is expected in Fall 2025.
- Implementation: If the expansion is approved, details about construction, funding sources (possibly including more federal grants), and how the work will affect airport operations will be shared.
Community and Business Perspectives
Local businesses and community leaders are excited about the airport’s growth. Many see Gulf Shores International Airport as a key driver of tourism and economic development. The addition of Allegiant Air and the possibility of more airlines in the future could bring even more visitors to the area.
LuLu’s, a well-known restaurant, is opening a kiosk in the terminal to serve travelers. This move is seen as a sign that local businesses are eager to support the airport and benefit from the increased traffic.
Travelers have also shared their thoughts. Early feedback shows that people value convenience, good amenities, and reliable service. These are all things the airport hopes to improve with the terminal expansion.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Gulf Shores International Airport
The outcome of the current design study will shape the future of the airport. If the expansion goes ahead, the airport could add more gates, offer more flights, and attract new airlines. This would make it even easier for people to visit Gulf Shores and for locals to travel.
The airport authority plans to keep the community informed throughout the process. Open communication with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders will be key to making sure the expansion meets everyone’s needs.
Potential for More Routes and Airlines
As the terminal grows, Gulf Shores International Airport may be able to add more nonstop routes and attract additional airlines. This would increase passenger numbers and help connect the region to more parts of the United States 🇺🇸.
Allegiant Air’s success has already shown that there is strong demand for flights to and from Gulf Shores. If the airport can expand its terminal and services, it could become a major travel hub for the area.
Economic and Social Impact
The terminal expansion is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. More flights mean more visitors, which supports hotels, restaurants, shops, and other businesses. The airport itself will need more staff, creating new jobs for local residents.
The city and airport will also benefit from increased revenue. As more people use the airport, parking fees, concessions, and other sources of income will grow. This money can be used to improve airport services and support community projects.
Challenges and Considerations
While the expansion offers many benefits, there are also challenges to consider. Funding is a major issue, as the airport will need to find money for construction and ongoing operations. The authority is looking at different options, including more federal grants and local support.
Another challenge is making sure the expansion doesn’t disrupt current operations. The airport will need to plan carefully to keep flights running smoothly during construction.
Finally, the airport must balance growth with the needs of the community. Some residents may be concerned about noise, traffic, or other impacts. The airport authority is committed to listening to these concerns and finding solutions that work for everyone.
How the Expansion Fits into Broader Transportation Trends
The growth of Gulf Shores International Airport reflects a larger trend in regional air travel. Many smaller airports across the United States 🇺🇸 are seeing increased demand as travelers look for easier, more convenient ways to reach popular destinations.
By expanding its terminal, Gulf Shores International Airport is positioning itself to take advantage of these trends. The airport’s success could serve as a model for other communities looking to boost tourism and economic growth through improved air service.
Practical Information for Travelers
If you’re planning to use Gulf Shores International Airport, here’s what you need to know:
- Current Services: The airport offers flights with Allegiant Air, ground transportation options, and soon, new food and beverage choices.
- Future Changes: If the terminal expansion is approved, expect more gates, better baggage claim, and improved curbside access.
- Stay Informed: For the latest updates, check the official airport website or the City of Gulf Shores website.
Expert Analysis and Community Voices
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the airport’s proactive approach to planning and community engagement is helping it stay ahead of demand. By involving local leaders, businesses, and travelers in the process, the airport is building support for its expansion plans.
Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh summed up the approach: “We’re committed to making sure Gulf Shores International Airport meets the needs of everyone who uses it. That means planning for the future and listening to our community.”
Where to Find More Information
For official updates on the terminal expansion and other airport news, visit the Gulf Shores International Airport website. You can also find information about federal airport programs and grants on the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program page.
Conclusion: What This Means for Gulf Shores and Beyond
The planned terminal expansion at Gulf Shores International Airport is a sign of the region’s growing popularity and economic strength. By investing in better facilities and more flights, the airport is helping to make Gulf Shores a top destination for travelers from across the United States 🇺🇸.
The next few months will be important as the airport authority reviews the design study and decides how to move forward. If the expansion is approved, travelers can look forward to a bigger, better terminal and more travel options in the near future.
For now, the airport remains focused on serving its passengers and supporting the community. With strong leadership, local support, and a clear plan for growth, Gulf Shores International Airport is set to play a key role in the area’s future.
Learn Today
Allegiant Air → A low-cost airline that launched commercial flights at Gulf Shores Airport in May 2025, increasing travel demand.
Terminal Expansion → Construction process to increase airport terminal size, adding gates, facilities, and improving passenger services.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) → U.S. government agency providing grants and oversight for airport infrastructure projects like Gulf Shores terminal.
Vasey Aviation Group → Consulting company conducting design studies for Gulf Shores Airport’s terminal expansion plans.
Narrow-body planes → Aircraft with a single aisle used for short to medium flights, requiring specific gate and parking facilities.
This Article in a Nutshell
Gulf Shores International Airport plans terminal expansion after a passenger surge from Allegiant Air flights starting May 2025. The current facility, built for 60,000 annual travelers, now needs more gates and amenities. A study by Vasey Aviation Group will guide decisions expected by fall 2025 to boost service and growth.
— By VisaVerge.com
