Positive Momentum
Modernizing the terminal, improving the parking system, and other passenger-friendly updates to bring travelers a best-in-class experience.
The Reinvention of MEM
“MEM is definitely on the move. More than two years ago, MEM reinvented the Memphis travel experience by introducing our modernized concourse. Now, we carry that momentum forward as we embark on our largest project ever, one that is designed to enhance our travelers’ experience and support our airport’s long-term growth.”
— Terry Blue, Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) President and CEO
Following are highlights of the project:
Demolishing Concourse A
Concourse A was originally built in 1974. It has not been used since we combined all airline, retail and restaurant operations into the modernized Concourse B in 2022. We will first use the Concourse A area for storing construction materials needed for the modernized terminal project. Following the MSCAA Master Plan, the area is a potential site for a new Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC). Also, a new MSCAA administration building might be built in this area, as well as a new checked baggage inspection system. Work on Concourse A is expected to begin in late 2024 with demolition expected to begin in early 2025. The project should take about 8–10 months.
New Commercial Ground Transportation Lane
The airport has begun work on a new commercial ground transport lane on the baggage claim level of the short-term parking garage. Once completed, ground transportation services will be relocated to this new lane. These services include taxis, shuttles, limos and ride share services, such as Lyft and Uber. This project should be completed by the end March 2025.
Replacing the Outer Drive
After completing the new commercial lane, the outer commercial drive on the ticketing/departures level will close for reconstruction. The outer drive replacement should begin in 2025. It will take about two years to complete. The project will result in a seismically enhanced and expanded departures-level drive. This phase of the project is needed to enable the terminal building expansion. The remodeled building will move outward into the existing inner-curb lane.
Modernizing the Terminal
The largest phase of the project will involve modernizing the Terminal B arrival and departure areas. Like Concourse B that was modernized in 2022, the terminal is more than 60 years old. This portion of the project is expected to begin in 2026. Completion is expected in 2030.
This phase will feature:
• Expanded open space in the baggage and ticketing areas, with improved passenger flow
• Larger security screening checkpoint
• Escalators and stairs relocated to the front of the terminal building
• Original architectural design preserved
• New TSA in-line checked baggage inspection system
• Seismic upgrades, making the structure more resistant to earthquake damage
Budget Overview
The current estimated cost for modernizing Terminal B and related projects is $653 million. It is the largest capital project in MEM’s history. This budget figure is an early estimate. It is likely to increase as design and construction details are finalized.
Project funding will include:
• General airport revenue bonds,
• State and federal grants,
• Passenger facility charges (PFCs) and
• Other Authority capital funds.
No city or county tax dollars will be used to fund the project.
Parking Improvements
• Increased Parking: More than 500 parking spaces will be added to the Yellow Lot by Fall 2024
• New parking ticket and payment system
• License Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras: This system identifies vehicles by their license plates. It uses light and an infrared camera to take images of the back of vehicles. Then, the image-processing software analyzes the images to extract license plate information. This safety feature allows Airport Police to know who is coming and going at the Airport.
• New parking guidance system: This system combines traffic monitoring, onsite communication, and parking sensor technologies to improve travelers’ parking experiences. The system will allow drivers to find unoccupied parking spaces. It will also help them locate their cars when returning from trips.
Future Projects
Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC)
The MSCAA Master Plan shows Concourse A as a potential site for a new Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC). It would add convenience for passengers by enabling the CONRAC to connect directly to the airport terminal. It would also free up the first two floors of the economy parking garage for more passenger parking. This project is not part of the modernized terminal project and is still in design.
Future Parking Improvements
A parking spot guidance system will be offered on flymemphis.com., as well as parking reservations and real-time updates on empty spaces.
Latest MEM on the Move News
TMSP Update: Outer Commercial Lane on Baggage Level to Close December 9
Work continues on our initial phase of the impending Terminal Modernization and Seismic Program (TMSP), specifically the creation of a new commercial ground transportation lane along the south end of the short-term garage outside baggage claim. Starting Monday, December 9, the lower outer commercial drive on the baggage level will be closed, and all traffic will be directed to the inner and middle lanes. The primary impact of this closure will be for coach buses and MATA operations.
MEM on the Move: New commercial ground transportation lane construction now underway
Construction has begun on the creation of the new commercial ground transportation lane outside baggage claim. Due to the active construction and barriers that are in place, passengers should only utilize crosswalks when walking to and from the terminal. This phase is expected to be completed in mid-December.
MEM on the Move: Construction on new commercial lane begins
Preliminary work has begun on the creation of a new commercial ground transportation lane on the baggage claim level of the short-term parking garage. This phase of the project will not have a significant impact on passengers, though pedestrians will be required to cross the street at crosswalks only. Once completed, ground transportation services will be relocated to this new lane.
MEM on the Move: Airport introduces new “Plan Your Flight” online tool
Memphis International Airport (MEM) has launched a new online feature, FlyMyAirport™, that allows passengers to plan and book their flights from www.flymemphis.com.
MEM on the Move: Airport modernization construction project begins
The first phases of the largest capital project in Memphis International Airport’s (MEM’s) history are underway.
Modernized Terminal Renderings
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected budget for this project?
The most recent estimated budget is about $653 million. However, this is an early estimate. Many elements are still being designed and developed. We expect this estimate to increase as design and construction details are finalized. Project funding will include:The most recent estimated budget for the project is approximately $653 million. However, this is an early estimate, and many elements are still in design and development. We expect this estimate to increase as design and construction details are finalized. Project funding will include general airport revenue bonds, state and federal grants, passenger facility charges (PFCs) and other Authority capital funds. No city or county tax dollars will be used to fund the project.
How will this impact my travel day?
Initial phases of the project will have minimal impact on passengers. The creation of the new commercial ground transportation lane will have some minor impact on pedestrian traffic flow, but the airport will post directional signage accordingly. This phase will affect about 50 short-term parking spaces, though the number of accessible parking spaces will not be reduced. The outer drive project will require lane closures, which will more directly affect passengers. The terminal modernization project will be most impactful, as areas of the ticketing and baggage areas will need to be closed at various times during the construction. MSCAA will provide continual passenger communications to inform the public.
Why is this project needed?
Essentially, it replaces aging infrastructure and adds needed seismic upgrades to the airport’s vehicle lanes and terminal. More importantly, it will greatly enhance the passenger experience. The existing facility was built in the early 1960s. It was not designed for the current travel environment. Our passengers need more space in ticketing, baggage, and the security checkpoint and more efficient use of that space. For example, this project will not only add more space, but it will also relocate escalators and stairs to the front of the building—a more convenient location. In addition, the project will add a more efficient, automated baggage screening system for passengers checking bags with their airlines.
How will changes be communicated?
The Airport Authority will utilize multiple forms of communication in order to keep passengers abreast of the project, including:
• MEM on the Move web page
• News releases and media interviews
• Signage for pedestrians and drivers
• Instructional videos
• Digital graphics
• MEM newsletters
• Social media
Will air service be impacted?
No, air service will not be impacted by this project.
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Recent Improvements
Modernized Concourse
The modernized concourse features more natural light, more room to move, new retail and restaurant options, and many new amenities to enhance the passenger experience.
Plan Your Trip with FlyMyAirport
Visitors to the website specify where and when they wish to travel, and FlyMyAirport provides searchable information about virtually every travel option from MEM: both nonstop and connecting as well as both domestic and international flights.
MEM Master Plan
Over the past 20 years, significant changes have occurred at Memphis International Airport (MEM). The airport has transitioned to operating as an origin and destination airport and has added new airlines to serve Memphis in the post-hub era.