New $362M Mobile airport enters final stages of construction

The state’s newest airport is on track for opening this fall as construction crews are entering the final months of the project.

A lot of the progress can be seen from the outside of the new Mobile International Airport but there is more work to be done on the inside of the terminal. The airport said more than 100 workers have been brought in during the winter months to assist.

Some of the work being done in the next few weeks include:

• Major interior spaces in the terminal are taking shape
• Mechanical, electrical, and fire safety systems continue throughout the building
• Exterior insulation and finishes are moving forward
• Parking garage is advancing through power and safety systems
• Elevated roadway is complete, with final site and paving work underway

Mobile International Airport

Last month, the airport said the project is scheduled to be completed by August with commercial flights expected to begin in November.

Delta, United and American airlines have already announced their intent to move services from the Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to Mobile International Airport (BFM) once operations begin.

The airport has also made an adjustment to the expected budget of the project. After surpassing $400 million estimate early in the project, the Mobile Airport Authority (MAA) has said it is now $19 million under budget with an estimated total cost of $362 million.

“Our priority has always been to deliver a safe, efficient facility built in a responsible and cost-effective way. The cost savings reflect the careful review and coordination that went into this process. The Authority is shifting its focus to the delivery of a modern and operationally efficient passenger terminal. These improvements will provide an enhanced level of customer service and elevated travel experience for visitors and citizens of Mobile and Baldwin Counties.”

Andy Wilson, MAA Executive Director

The Authority rebid the interior build-out package last year, and the new pricing came in significantly lower than previous numbers. Combined with other design refinements, the project is now tracking approximately $19 million under the approved $381 million budget, with a current estimated cost of about $362 million.

The scope and function of the terminal remain unchanged.

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