One of four security checkpoints at the Austin airport closed last week, marking the beginning of an expansion project set to last until late 2026.

To accommodate a growing number of passengers every year, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport temporarily closed TSA Checkpoint 3 West to create more terminal space and increase the amount of checkpoint lanes from two to eight. The project, made possible through a nearly $40 million federal fund for multiple expansion projects, will implement a new baggage system and create more terminal space for ticketing, council member Vanessa Fuentes said.

“With this support and collaboration with our airline partners, I’m confident in our ability to get (the airport) where it needs to be,” Fuentes said in an email statement. “This expansion isn’t just a matter of convenience, it’s about keeping passengers and workers safe.”

While the expansion project was made to help with Austin’s status as a growing city, some prefer the easy accessibility of smaller airports. Economics sophomore Osvaldo Hernandez, an out-of-state student from California, said he finds the Austin airport more convenient than airports in larger metroplexes.

“In a way, it’s kind of efficient, because it doesn’t take as long to get through TSA and the gates are closer together,” Hernandez said. “I’ve always used LAX or DFW, but when I did use Austin, it’s preferred because it’s smaller. I feel like the thing with bigger airports is you’re expected (to be) delay(ed) or you’re expected to take up more of your time.”

According to UT, 10% of the University’s students are from out-of-state, meaning thousands of students likely rely on the airport for transportation to and from home. Alexandra Azout, an art history and Plan II freshman, said while she hasn’t experienced any problems getting back to her hometown of Miami, she thinks the expansion could be advantageous for businesses as well. 

“Having a bigger airport is definitely helpful and makes it easier for not only people and tourists, but businesses to expand as well,” Azout said.

During Checkpoint 3 West’s construction, Fuentes said visitors can expect the Austin airport to look different. She said travelers should arrive earlier than usual to avoid inconveniences.

“I encourage travelers to plan accordingly and check traffic well ahead of time,” Fuentes said in an email statement.