On July 29, 2026, President Donald Trump announced plans for a significant renovation of Dulles International Airport during an event in the Oval Office, alongside Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The project will involve the construction of new concourses and the removal of the airport's existing shuttle system, referred to as "people movers." Trump stated that the renovation will add over five million square feet of new or renovated space, including a new multi-story parking garage with 32,000 spaces, which he claimed would be the largest in the world.
Transportation Secretary Duffy indicated that the project's estimated cost of $22 billion would be funded through bonds, with contributions from participating airlines, including United Airlines. Duffy noted that while some permitting is still required, they anticipate construction could begin by spring of the following year, with a completion target of two years. However, United Airlines provided a different timeline, suggesting the transformation could take up to a decade.
Reactions from travelers at the airport were mixed, with some expressing satisfaction with the current facilities, while others noted issues with the existing transportation system. Trump has expressed a long-standing interest in improving the airport, having previously assessed potential projects during a visit in October. The airport, named after former Secretary of State John Foster Dulles, was dedicated in 1962 and is one of three major airports serving the Washington, D.C. area.
The announcement follows Trump's involvement in various construction projects in the Washington area and his recent renaming of Palm Beach International Airport to President Donald J. Trump International Airport.