Revamp of Portland International Airport Nearing Completion

The Portland International Airport is undergoing a major renovation project, which reached a significant milestone in the week of May 19. The completion of Phase 2 of the project, which includes the construction of a new wing with an iconic wooden roof, marks a major step forward in the revamping of the airport.

The new wing, located in the northwest corner of the airport, will cover the transitional space between Concourses B and C, as well as house a new Alaska Airlines lounge with a stunning view of the surrounding forested highlands. The 220-foot wide and deep wing is expected to open to the public in the first quarter of 2026.

The completion of this wing is a major milestone, but there is still more work to be done. The project, which has been ongoing for several years, has already brought about significant changes to the airport. However, travelers will still see some areas blocked off and a long walk from airplanes to exits and baggage claim, until the new wing is open.

The completion of the new wing will significantly shorten the walk for travelers and will feature 10 new local restaurants and shops, as well as private, all-user restrooms with unique tile mosaics created by local artisans. It will also serve as the exit routes for Concourses B and C, with new escalators leading to the baggage claim and MAX light rail station within the airport.

The second floor of the wing will house a spacious lounge for Alaska Airlines, with massive glass walls facing west, offering breathtaking views of the West Hills, Mount Tabor, and Rocky Butte. However, this lounge will not be completed until the second quarter of 2026.

One of the most impressive features of the new wing is its seismic safety measures. The wing is designed to withstand earthquakes, with plates atop gigantic, Y-shaped pillars that allow the roof to move independently from the rest of the building. The roof can move up to 24 inches in any direction, making it resilient to earthquakes, such as the Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake.

In addition, negotiations are underway with the federal government to secure the funds to build resilient runways that can withstand major earthquakes. This will make the Portland International Airport one of the few airports in the world with this level of earthquake resistance.

The ongoing renovation project has already brought about significant changes to the airport, making it more modern and accommodating to travelers. With the completion of Phase 2, the revamped Portland International Airport is on its way to becoming a top destination for travelers from around the world.