Current projects at South Bend International Airport could increase future possibilities. Photo from South Bend International Airport.

News Release

SOUTH BEND — South Bend Airport is halfway through a $70 million multi-year reconstruction project on its terminal apron and taxiway.

A few gates have been closed at a time since the apron construction began in the spring to allow replacement of aging concrete near the nine-gate concourse and dig up 35,000 cubic yards of dirt to lower the height of the terminal apron — the concrete area closest to airport gates.

The benefits of this is to lessen the incline of the connecting hallways from the plane to the terminals. Those inclines are set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. It will also mean the ability to service larger plans and could unlock new destinations for travelers.

The airport is also redesigning a stretch of taxiway further from the terminal to create a safer path for pilots.

The resurfacing is just one of several projects planned or underway for the coming years. A new private hanger for a corporate clients is nearing completion. Officials are also looking to move the business center to open up an eighth jet bridge and add awnings to the airport’s front drive.

The closures have not affected travel and with Notre Dame back in session for the 2023-24 season, the construction is not expected to affect travel through the football season.

During the construction airport officials are redirecting some airlines to shared gates to minimize effects of travel. Construction crews will work as long as possible into the winter months and resume work in the spring. Completion is expected later next year.

Passenger travel at the airport is up over 10% compared to 2022.

Looking toward the future, consideration is being given to extending its terminal west, opening up the possibility of more flights to additional locations. Airport officials envision a two-phase project, each adding five to seven gates. The project will be driven by the availability of funding.

Recent projects are dependent on federal funding. Only 10% of the current projects are funded through state and airport local funds.

South Bend International Airport currently offers direct flights to such major hubs as Chicago, Atlanta and Dallas/Fort Worth through Allegiant, American AIrlines, Delta and United. The airport announced in June Delta would return its daily nonstop flights to Detroit in September.