SoCal airport undergoing $2.2B expansion that could extend to 2036

Travelers heading in and out of California’s favorite desert playground are in for a serious upgrade.

Palm Springs International Airport is rolling out a massive $2.2 billion modernization blitz that could stretch through 2036, and potentially double its gate count while preserving its iconic mid-century modern charm.

With a surge of vacationers and Coachella-bound crowds, Palm Springs Airport’s long-term master plan projects annual passengers to skyrocket from 3.2 million in 2024 and reach nearly 6.4 million by 2042, according to CalMatters.

To keep pace, the plan provides a “roadmap for growth possibilities” that could expand the airport’s current 18 gates to a whopping 32 across many key development phases.

Conceptually, the first phase would tack on seven brand new gates on a sleek North Concourse to clear tarmac congestion. There is no timeline yet though, so passengers shouldn’t expect to stroll through the new gates anytime soon. As an “long-range project” in the plan, it “would move forward based on future passenger growth reaching the levels projected in the plan, along with the necessary funding and approvals,” spokesperson Jake Ingrassia told The Post.

But phase one of the mega-project packs major perks that will come soon. In 2027, a new car rental hub will be built right next to the baggage claim so you can walk directly there after getting your suitcases, and 80 new EV chargers will be installed in parking lot B by the end of 2026 — creating one of the largest airport charging set ups in the country, trailing only mega-hubs like LAX and San Diego.

The parking system will also see improvements in 2027 with automated license-plate readers, contactless digital ticketing, and real-time space tracking.

Expected in 2028, there will also be an expanded and revamped luggage handling system designed to speed up luggage turnaround times and modernize screening systems.

Plus, a dedicated U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility will allow the airport to welcome those coming from other countries that have not been pre-cleared.

“It’s important to understand that when we talk about expanding, it’s only as demand warrants it,” Ingrassia said at an April community meeting.

The second phase envisions a complementary South Concourse with additional gates, among other features.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters