Latest improvements elevate experience across six concourses, 75 gate areas
New terrazzo flooring and dynamic lighting are some of the interior improvements in Terminal 1 as part of the Airport Modernization Program at MSP Airport. Courtesy of the Metropolitan Airports Commission
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MINN — The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) and Delta Air Lines announce the completion of the largest-ever interior renovation of Terminal 1 concourses and passenger gate areas at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).
The MAC and Delta collaborated on the Airport Modernization Program, a $242 million construction project managed by Delta to create a unified and modern design across six of the terminal’s seven concourses and approximately 75 Delta gate hold rooms. Delta operates its second largest hub at MSP and has a 70% passenger market share at the airport.
“In a matter of two years, we have witnessed a major transformation of the post-security areas of Terminal 1 that elevates the passenger experience — from the checkpoints to the gate areas,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the MAC, which owns and operates MSP Airport. “Delta has been a tremendous partner helping to deliver more modern spaces that enhance MSP’s award-winning customer service.”
The extensive renovations began in the fall of 2023. Some of the notable improvements include new terrazzo or carpet flooring, wall finishes, LED lighting, and improved building systems, which are mostly enclosed above new metal-panel ceilings. The Delta gate areas underwent a full refresh, including new seating, carpeting, counters and signage. One of the most visible enhancements is the addition of dynamic gate signs along the concourse walkways, which allow passengers to see flight and destination information more quickly and from farther down the concourse.
“Minneapolis-St. Paul is a vital hub for Delta, enabling our customers to connect to hundreds of destinations across the globe,” said Delta Vice President of Airport Operations Jeannine Ashworth. “We are so grateful for our partnership with the MAC on the Airport Modernization Program, which has allowed us to truly elevate the customer experience with modern facilities and amenities that will benefit all of our customers traveling through MSP.”
The Terminal 1 interior renovations started while the final phases of a separate, 10-year campaign were underway to expand and modernize all the pre-security areas, including the complete makeover of checkpoints, ticketing functions and baggage claim. MSP’s Operational Improvements Program was completed earlier this fall.
“It’s been an intense decade of projects and improvements to transform this terminal into a modern facility,” said Bridget Rief, MAC vice president of planning and development. “In all, these projects enabled us to accommodate the future growth of passenger volume, improve systems and operations, and deliver bright and welcoming spaces for our millions of annual travelers and visitors.”
The MAC invested $182.5 million in the Airport Modernization Program, and Delta contributed $60 million for the improvements.
MSP has been named the best mega airport for customer and traveler satisfaction in back-to-back years in the annual J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study. MSP has earned the highest ranking in customer satisfaction for mega airports in three out of the past four years.
A summary of post-security Airport Modernization Program improvements:
- Technology upgrades that include dynamic flight information screens along concourse walkways at every gate
- Full refresh of 75 Delta gate areas
- New gate seating with power outlets
- Brighter, more modern and sustainable LED lighting in concourse walkways and gate areas
- More accessible and durable terrazzo flooring in concourses C, D and G; and new carpeting in concourses A, B and F
- New wall finishes, including quarter-height granite in public corridors and tile in Delta gate areas
- Metal-panel ceiling systems in most concourse walkways
- New structural column covers
- New carpeting in gate areas to mirror experiences at other Delta hub airports
- Updated gate information display screens
- Refreshed Delta branding across all gate areas
