The growth of Oklahoma City along with the growth of the airport provides opportunities for new routes and new airlines, which also comes with a demand for more capacity. In order to better meet the needs of the airlines and their expanding service at Will Rogers World Airport, more gates will be built soon.
The last terminal expansion happened in 2001 and the design influenced by the flow of people to and from the concourse. This new expansion will provide a centralized checkpoint, will streamline the passenger screening process, and will decrease wait times. The expansion will also improve the circulation area so that people are able to move freely within the terminal, which will more positively impact the customer experience.
Expansion designers began working in the lobby area at the front of the new security checkpoint. So, passengers who come to the checkpoint will have more room to wait for other members of their party, say last minute goodbyes and prepare to go through the checkpoint. Once passing through the checkpoint, there will be a wide-open area for travelers to gather their belongings. In this area they will be able to relax, enjoy a snack and/or beverage, and enjoy the view of art and the airfield.
Will Rogers World Airport is reviving a tradition that has been lost at most commercial airports; the ability to come to the airport and just watch planes for fun. There will now be a public observation lounge located on the mezzanine level above the town square. Visitors who may not be traveling will be able to enjoy watching airport activity without having to purchase a ticket. As a part of the Oklahoma City Airport Trust’s commitment to public art, an artist was commissioned to design and oversee the installation of two architecturally integrated works of art. The designs will be in the flooring of the lobby and concourse areas, along with a glass wall in the public observation lounge. While there is much more to the expansion of Will Rogers World Airport, like concessions, lactation rooms, and indoor pet relief, it is very exciting to know that it will all be coming in the near future.
