Taking a proactive approach to significant, incoming passenger growth, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA) and Tampa International Airport are working to deliver a new international terminal, Airside D. Upon its completion, the new airside will create the critical infrastructure needed to maintain steady operations and continue the airport’s exceptional passenger experience.

Architect of Record

HNTB serves as Lead Design Architect and Architect of Record on the project, leading civil, structural and architectural design efforts and working alongside design-build partner, Hensel Phelps and associate architect, Gensler. Under this scope, the firm’s work includes designs of the new airside building, gates and passenger flow systems that will create an easy passenger journey and pay homage to the Tampa Bay region.

The Design

The TPA facility will include 16 gates and an 8-lane security checkpoint to accommodate both domestic and international flights. To enhance the international passenger arrivals’ experience there will be a Federal Inspection Services (FIS) area with advanced, efficient customs processing and reduced wait times for baggage reclaim. A new Main Terminal Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) will be built for the TSA to replace the existing west Airsides E and F baggage screening and incorporating the additional baggage capacity for the new Airside D.

Spanning over 600,000 square feet and two levels, Airside D will also feature:

  • A new Automated People Mover (APM) shuttle guideway system
  • Two airline lounges with views of the airfield and the bay
  • A variety of new shopping and dining options with 360-degree views of all 16 gates
  • Large open space featuring intuitive wayfinding and natural lighting
  • FIS sterile corridor with views to the airfield
  • Robust baggage handling system (BHS) with outbound baggage screening and make-up and inbound international baggage reclaim
  • 8-lane TSA security screening check point (SSCP) with the most modern screening lane technology for passenger efficiency and comfort

The Master Plan

Stemming from previous collaboration between HCAA and HNTB on an updated airport master plan, the new 16-gate airside initiative and associated APM project are key components of a larger, strategic, phased-approach that will ultimately accommodate an estimated 38 million annual passengers by 2042.

Location: Tampa, FL

Client: Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA); Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Services: Architect of record